Porto

placed in the category: Cities

Porto is the second city of Portugal, and the largest city in its region Norte NUTS II, of which it is the capital as well. This city is found at the northern area of Portugal. It is considered to be the cultural heart and economic centre of the whole region. The historic centre of this city was recently recognized as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO in 1996.

Named after the city, Port wine is considered to be one of the most famous products of Portugal internationally. The wine is named after the city for the simple reason that it is produced there, and the wine is also shipped from that area.

The District of Porto is one of Portugal's most industrialized districts, and the largest industrial park is found in a satellite city of Porto, Maia. Even the country is named after the Latin name of Porto, which is Portus Cale.

Porto plays a role in the Portuguese culture. For example, the first Portuguese film was taken in this city, and Invicta Filmes, the first movie studio of the country was built in Porto as well. The city also has numerous cinemas, art galleries, theaters, book shops, libraries, and concert halls.

This city is home to numerous Portugal cuisine dishes. A common dish is tripes, which is cooked Porto style, and it is still quite popular in the city until now. The most famous snack in Porto is the Francesinha, a sandwich made of various kinds of meats, with special sauce made of beer, and cheese. Their famous Port wine is already considered as dessert.

Porto enjoys annual events such as the St. John Festival which is held on the night of June 23 to 24. Another event is the Queima das Fitas, where people try to enjoy as much as they could before they start studying for the school's final exams.

This city played different roles throughout history, from the 4th centure, to the Roman times, 18th century, to the 19th century, until the present. Porto even hosted the Formula One Portuguese Grand Prix, held on the streets of Porto.