Cultural Programme

Viana do Castelo, a port city in northern Portugal's Costa Verde region, sits at the mouth of the Lima River. Its origins trace back to a Celtic settlement on Monte de Santa Luzia, later occupied by the Romans. Officially founded in 1253 by King Afonso III, the city flourished in the 16th century during the Age of Discovery, with local shipyards and trade booming.

Notable landmarks include the 16th-century Igreja Matriz (parish church), Paços do Concelho (former town hall), the Renaissance Queen's Fountain, the 18th-century Igreja da Senhora da Agonia, and a striking iron bridge designed by Gustav Eiffel. The monumental Sanctuary of Santa Luzia, built between 1903 and 1943, offers one of the most breathtaking views in the world, hailed by National Geographic.

Ponte de Lima, a city in northern Portugal on the Lima River, has ancient origins dating back to Roman times, with a bridge (Ponte Romana) built to connect important trade routes. Over time, it developed into a significant commercial center. The city is known for its large market held every other Monday.

A key landmark is the Roman bridge (Ponte Velha), which leads to the old town and offers scenic views with a palm tree in the background. Starting at Largo de Camões, the main square, you’ll find a 17th-century fountain and the Torre de São Paulo, remnants of medieval defensive walls. Strolling along Avenida Dom Luis Filipe, you’ll encounter the 16th-century convent-turned museum, São Francisco and São António dos Capuchos, as well as the picturesque Igreja de Santo António with its beautiful tower.

Porto, the second largest city in Portugal, is known for its unique charm, blending historic architecture with modern innovation. Famous for Porto wine, the city is often compared to Lisbon in terms of beauty. A popular saying reflects its character: "They work in Porto, they pray in Braga, they study in Coimbra, and they spend money in Lisbon."

Key attractions include the grand Town Hall, the São Bento railway station, and the Se Catedral do Porto. A stroll along Rua de Augusto Rosa leads to the Funicular dos Guindais and the iconic Ponte de Dom Luís I bridge, designed by Théophil Seyrig. For the best view, cross the bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can admire the panoramic views of the Douro River and traditional wooden barges.

Don’t miss the Igreja e Torre dos Clérigos, the Livraria Lello Bookshop, and the Igreja do Carmo, decorated with beautiful Portuguese azulejos. Porto, with its blend of history and innovation, is truly unique.