House of the Prince - Museological Center

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Centro Histórico

Location

The Casa do Infante (House of the Prince) is located in the historic heart of Porto, very close to the bank of the Douro River. It is situated in an area characterized by narrow streets and an atmosphere that evokes the city's commercial and maritime past. Its position allows visitors to feel the close proximity to the river and the historical dynamism of this classified zone.

Origin and History

This building is one of the oldest and most historically significant in the city of Porto. Its initial construction dates back to the 14th century, having been built by royal order to function as the city's Custom House. It was at this site, according to tradition, that Infante D. Henrique (Prince Henry the Navigator), a central figure in the Portuguese Discoveries, was born in 1394, which gives it a special symbolism linked to the Age of Expansion.

The Museum Nucleus

Currently, the Casa do Infante houses a museum nucleus dedicated to the city's history. The space presents archaeological remains that testify to the long life of the building and the surrounding area, including remnants of the original constructions. The exhibitions explore Porto's role in trade, navigation, and its connection with the Discoveries, through artifacts and information that help understand the urban and economic evolution of the city over the centuries.

Architecture and Evolution

Over the years, the Casa do Infante building has undergone several transformations and adaptations, reflecting the different functions it performed, from a custom house to other civil uses. Its architecture incorporates elements from various periods, showing the superposition of historical layers. Observing the building's structure provides insight into its original robustness as a warehouse and custom house, as well as the changes introduced in later periods.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt