Centro Português de Fotografia (Portuguese Centre of Photography), Porto

The Portuguese Centre of Photography (Centro Português de Fotografia) was established in 1997, with the first exhibitions taking place later that year on the building’s ground floor. However, it wasn’t until 2001, after an extensive renovation by architects Eduardo Souto Moura and Humberto Vieira, that the Centre of Photography fully occupied its current location.

This location is the historic Cadeia da Relação, a building that dates back to 1767, originally designed by Eugénio dos Santos e Carvalho, an architect known for his work in Pombaline Lisbon. Its construction took nearly three decades, and it served both as a Court of Appeal and a jail. The building’s design, with a distinctive trapezoidal layout, divided space equally between the courtrooms and the jail cells. The careful attention to detail in the court areas remains evident even today in the intricate finishes and architectural flourishes.

The establishment of the Portuguese Centre of Photography came as part of a broader revival of photographic culture in Portugal during the 1990s, supported by photography schools, festivals, and galleries. This movement also drew back photographers who had been exiled during the Salazar regime, allowing them to once again produce and exhibit internationally significant works.

Today, the Portuguese Centre of Photography serves as a cultural hub for historical and contemporary photography, housing a significant part of the country's photographic heritage. During your visit, you can explore old national and international cameras, including instant and still models that are over 100 years old. The center features a permanent exhibition along with rotating temporary exhibits, each highlighting various themes and aspects of Portuguese and international photography history.

Why You Should Visit:
To see interesting photo exhibits while walking through the caverns of an old prison, including the upper levels that used to be reserved for high-paying criminals.
Even a casual photographer should find some of the vintage cameras on display to be interesting. From the last floor, you can also get a good view of Porto and there is a lift.