Portuguese Centre of Photography

The Portuguese Centre of Photography can be found in an old prison in Porto, and today contains a large portion of the country's photographic heritage, from old photos taken at home and abroad, to cameras over 100 years old.

It was created in 1997 and is currently one of the most important historical photography exhibitions in Portugal.

The old prison

The building itself dates from the 18th century and has been both courthouse and prison. It was active until the 1970s, when the dictator Antonio de Oliveira Salazar was deposed.

Today the building is a complete experience for visitors, as the centre links its temporary and permanent exhibitions with the various cells and even some old punishment halls for the prisoners.

The museum

The museum today is dedicated to the art of photography, dating back from the first cameras to the modern-day.

There are both permanent and temporary exhibitions which take in various themes, combining to tell the history of Portuguese and international photography.

On the first floor you can find the temporary exhibitions, on the second floor you'll find photos organised by theme, and on the third floor is the impressive camera exposition - without doubt the museum's highlight.

Many of the spaces have been recently been reformed by the ministry of culture, making it currently one of the most interesting museums in Porto.

And a bonus is that it's close to other highlights, such as the Clérigos Tower, so you can combine the visit.