Port

Say, the American actor John Malkovich said Porto the most romantic city in Europe. Perhaps those who have been to Venice or Paris, to challenge this view, but, in our opinion, it is not too far from the truth. Only twenty-five minute flight from Lisbon, and we find ourselves in this wonderful city in northern Portugal, had given its name not only to the famous port wine, but also throughout the country. In the old days here on the left bank of the River Douro, was a Roman settlement of Portus ("Harbor") and the right-Calais ("beautiful"). After the expulsion of Arabs in 1095, appeared on the map county Portukalia, later evolved into the kingdom of Portugal. Porto eternal rival of Lisbon. In contrast to the aristocratic Lisbon, Porto has always set the tone urban commercial elite. To know here to keep in check. Up until the XVII century nobles prohibits not only to build palaces, but also be in town for three days. Even kings were not in Porto own residence. Today Porto quiet, calm and comfortable town, where bizarre, yet surprisingly harmonious architectural styles such disparate as medieval Gothic, Baroque and Art Nouveau. According to the old quarter, the fashionable street of Santa - Katarina and embankments Douro can walk for hours, admiring the wonderful views and examining the challenges berths old barges, which when - then carrying barrels of port wine. By the way, here, the river is an entire placer Cellars, where you can taste and, of course, buy this noble beverage. From the pier next to a scenic area Ribeiro depart pleasure boats, ride on Douro tourists. They pass under an unusually graceful bridges, construction of one of whom is subtly reminiscent of the Paris Eiffel Tower. Good reason: its author, the same Gustave Eiffel. At sunset, the Port is especially beautiful. From the heights of King Luis I bridge opens a magical view of the setting sun lit up the city. Lit lanterns, the streets are filled with people who are spread around the enchanting sounds of fado. Probably, we should heed the opinion of John Malkovich.