Palácio da Bolsa – A Fascinating Piece of Portugal’s History
Palácio da Bolsa is one of the oldest and most iconic buildings in the city of Porto, Portugal. Built in the early 19th century, this historic palace has been the home of the city’s stock exchange since 1833. Over the years, Palácio da Bolsa has become an important symbol of Porto’s commercial and financial history and is now considered one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
Discover the History of Palácio da Bolsa
The construction of Palácio da Bolsa began in 1842 and was only completed in 1895, after a long and complicated process of design, engineering and construction. The building was designed in the Neoclassical style, with a blend of traditional Portuguese and European elements.
The main entrance of the palace is located on Rua Ferreira Borges, one of Porto’s most famous streets. The main building is surrounded by a garden, which is also open to visitors. Inside, visitors can explore the various rooms and halls, each of which is filled with beautiful furniture and artwork from the 19th century.
The main attraction of the palace is the “Sala dos Passos Perdidos” (Hall of Lost Steps), which was designed by the famous Portuguese architect Miguel Ventura Terra. The hall is covered in ornate green and gold tiles and is considered one of the most beautiful and impressive rooms in the entire palace.
Explore the Palácio da Bolsa Museum
In addition to the palace itself, visitors can also explore the Palácio da Bolsa Museum, which is located in the basement of the building. The museum is dedicated to the history of the stock exchange in Porto and contains a variety of artifacts, documents and photographs related to the city’s financial history.
The museum also houses a library, which contains a selection of books related to the history of the stock exchange and the development of the city of Porto. The library also contains a variety of old maps, which can be used to explore the history of the city.
Attend the Annual Gala at Palácio da Bolsa
Every year, Palácio da Bolsa hosts an annual gala, which is attended by prominent members of the business and financial community in Porto. The event is usually held in the “Sala dos Passos Perdidos” and is a great opportunity to experience the grandeur of the palace.
Visiting Palácio da Bolsa
Palácio da Bolsa is open to the public every day from 10 am to 6 pm. Tickets for the palace and museum can be purchased at the entrance and cost €7 for adults and €3 for children.
Conclusion
Palácio da Bolsa is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture and a fascinating piece of Portugal’s history. The palace and museum offer visitors a unique insight into Porto’s financial past and are a must-visit for anyone visiting the city. Whether you’re interested in the history of the stock exchange or just want to admire the beauty of the palace, Palácio da Bolsa is sure to be a memorable experience.