Vila Nova de Gaia – Tours
Discover the Art on the Streets
We invite you to be inspired by the corners of our territory that stand out for their impressive artistic beauty! Here, every street is a gallery, and every building is a masterpiece of human genius.
Take a stroll through the streets and discover the work of both national and international artists who, with determination and perseverance, continuously create art to adorn every corner of our territory, enriching our cultural and aesthetic heritage.
Venture out and discover architectural creations
The architecture in Vila Nova de Gaia is a true symphony of styles and eras that blend in harmony with the surrounding environment. The architectural diversity found in the streets reveals the historical and cultural richness of our territory!
Embark on a journey through the paths of Gaia and uncover the artistic magnificence… from the imposing historical buildings of the 11th century to the most modern architectural creations.
Each architectural element contributes to the landscape that makes up Vila Nova de Gaia, offering a captivating view of the evolution of history and art.
Architecture
1. Monastery of Serra do Pilar
Did you know that it took about 72 years to complete this architectural masterpiece?
That’s right! The Serra do Pilar Monastery was built with precision, patience, and an unwavering commitment to perfection. And the result is simply magnificent.
The monastery is located in an area classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1996, making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. But it’s not just the artistic grandeur that draws visitors here. The breathtaking views from the monastery are simply breathtaking, and you won’t find anything quite like it anywhere else.
So, what are you waiting for? Come and discover the beauty and history of Vila Nova de Gaia, and make sure to add the Serra do Pilar Monastery to your list. We guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
Architecture
2. Corpus Christi Convent
One of the most iconic landmarks of our destination is the Corpus Christi Convent. This architectural masterpiece showcases the grandeur of Baroque-style religious architecture.
Initially built in the 14th century as a Dominican Order convent, it now houses three museum areas that offer a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of our land. With a permanent exhibition dedicated to sacred art, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and majesty of this unique site.
The Corpus Christi Convent is a true gem by the Douro River, and its size and history make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of Vila Nova de Gaia!
Architecture
3. Luís I Bridge
Did you know that the lines of the bridge remind us of the famous Eiffel Tower designed by Gustave Eiffel… but is there any connection between the Luís I Bridge and Eiffel? In a way, yes… Gustave Eiffel presented his project, but it was rejected, giving way to the proposal of his student, Théophile Seyrig. However, Eiffel left his mark on Gaia with the D. Maria Pia Bridge, another magnificent example of iron architecture in Portugal!
An iconic infrastructure of Gaia, the Luís I Bridge is a true masterpiece of iron architecture! Designed by engineer Théophile Seyrig, it was inaugurated in 1886, but the lower deck was opened to the public in 1887. This magnificent iron structure connects Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia and offers an unforgettable view over the Douro River.
Here’s an interesting fact we can’t skip! Do you know why the bridge is named Luís I? It is in honour of King D. Luís I. However, since he did not attend the inauguration, the locals decided not to include the “Dom” in the protest. These are reasons enough to visit this imposing bridge in our territory.
Let yourself be amazed by the grandeur of this bridge and the incredible view it provides!
Architecture
4. Barbot House
Built-in the 20th century as the residence of the Barbot family, Casa Barbot is an incredible example of Art Nouveau in Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can also find elements of Arabic inspiration, tiles with neoclassical influences, and some oriental design elements.
Located in the heart of the city, on Avenida da República, this architectural gem stands out from its urban surroundings due to its artistic grandeur. The meticulous decorative motifs and the magnificent details crafted in granite are some of the reasons why you should visit this incredible building.
Architecture
5. Arrábida Bridge
Classified as a National Monument, this fantastic engineering marvel was designed by Edgar Cardoso, a renowned name both nationally and internationally!
Designed and entirely constructed by Portuguese engineering, the Arrábida Bridge was inaugurated in 1963. Did you know that at the time of its inauguration, it featured the world’s largest concrete arch? This majestic construction had, in 1963, the largest reinforced concrete arch in the world, measuring 270 meters. Come and marvel at this remarkable feat of human ingenuity!
Architecture
6. Grijó Monastery
Come and explore this remarkable example of Mannerist architecture, where every corner holds incredible details waiting to be discovered.
Its foundation dates back to the year 922 AD, but it was only in 1574 that this imposing building took shape, thanks to the design of the visionary architect Francisco Velasquez! With distinctive Mannerist features, this grand monastery welcomes us with a façade that showcases an imposing triangular pediment, three perfect round arches, and two relief sculptures of St. Peter and St. Paul… along with other ornamental details that we invite you to explore!
Architecture
7. Pedroso Monastery
The Pedroso Monastery is an incredible example of medieval architecture in Vila Nova de Gaia!
This medieval-era building, intertwined with the very foundation of Portugal, is enriched with impressive elements of Romanesque style, such as the South Tower.
In the distant past, it belonged to the Benedictine Order, founded by Saint Benedict. With genuinely remarkable preservation, the Pedroso Monastery is truly worth contemplation! Don’t miss the opportunity to get up close and personal with the Pedroso Monastery.
Architecture
8. Canelas Bandstand
A true example of Art Nouveau in Vila Nova de Gaia, the Canelas Bandstand is worthy of your visit! Inaugurated in 1907, on the Feast of Saint John (June 24th)… it is a true masterpiece in wrought iron with impressive details of Neo-Arab influence.
Noteworthy are the medallions featuring portraits of renowned composers such as Beethoven and Verdi! Be enchanted by the delicacy that this six-meter structure conveys.
Architecture
9. Arcos do Sardão Aqueduct
In 1720, the Arcos do Sardão Aqueduct was built by order of José Bento Leitão, the maternal grandfather of the famous writer Almeida Garrett, for private use with the purpose of supplying water to the stunning mansion at Quinta do Sardão.
This magnificent structure consists of just one arcade with 23 full arches. Classified as a National Monument, it is an unmistakable icon of Vila Nova de Gaia that you won’t want to miss!
Enjoy and discover the magic of urban art
Experience the vibrant and creative urban art scene in Gaia! Discover the magic of this unique art form that transforms the streets of Vila Nova de Gaia into a canvas of imagination and inspiration.
Get ready to explore Gaia in a whole new way, where every corner holds a new surprise, and every street boasts a new masterpiece. Immerse yourself in this enriching experience and make your visit to Gaia genuinely unforgettable.
With an array of awe-inspiring urban art pieces to admire, including works by renowned artists such as Bordalo II, Third, Mariana the Miserable, Isaac Cordal, and Pastel, you’ll discover new perspectives and ignite your imagination. Come and be captivated by the splendid artistic creations that await you in Vila Nova de Gaia!
Urban Art
1. "Half Rabbit" de Bordalo II
Did you know that Bordalo II’s ‘Half Rabbit’ is constructed from trash? Does that pique your curiosity?In the magnificent quays of Gaia, you can find Bordalo II’s grand masterpiece… the Rabbit! At the corner of Dom Afonso III Street and Guilherme Gomes Fernandes Street, this animal appears as if folded… one of its halves is colourful and cheerful, while the other is sombre. Known as the ‘Half Rabbit,’ it is a call for social and environmental awareness.
Artur Bordalo, better known as Bordalo II, is a renowned Portuguese artist who chooses public spaces to showcase his artistic expressions. His urban art focuses on critiquing materialistic and capitalist society and, consequently, the excessive production of waste.
His creations are now displayed in approximately 19 countries… Bordalo II produces large-scale images of animals using trash as his primary raw material. The artist already has more than 80 animals in his portfolio!
In Portugal, we can admire some of his incredible works in the streets of 15 cities… and, of course, Vila Nova de Gaia is one of the fortunate ones!
Urban Art
2. "Pastel" Mural
Enjoy the journey! Explore the streets of Gaia’s quays and the Port wine cellars… and come across this lush image, an exemplary piece of urban art created by the artist “Pastel”.
Francisco Diaz Scott, an Argentine painter and architect known as Pastel, aims to make a visual impact with his works in the urban landscapes where he creates. What do his pieces look like? Typically, they are colourful murals that depict scenes from everyday life and aspects of nature, such as flora!
These artistic expressions represent growth and a connection with nature… In Gaia, by the quays, next to the famous Port wine cellars, you’ll find Pastel’s magnificent mural… an entire tower painted in shades of pink and purple. In Largo Joaquim Magalhães, you can glimpse the grand, colourful flowers that brighten our territory.
