on my last day in porto, i had something special planned: modern architecture. during my studies, portuguese modern architecture is always a key topic—this was my chance to finally experience it up close. on the itinerary: the faculty of architecture by álvaro siza and the casa da música by rem koolhaas. both buildings left a lasting impression on me.
casa da música
the casa da música in porto is a true magnet for anyone who loves modern architecture and culture. even from the outside, the building impresses with its unique form, standing like a giant, geometric monolith in the heart of porto—a creation of dutch star architect rem koolhaas.
since 2005, this masterpiece has caught the eye, bringing an avant-garde flair to the historic city. the interior of the casa da música is as fascinating as its facade. visitors find spacious, light-filled rooms and bold architectural details that create an almost magical atmosphere. the main concert hall, the “sala suggia,” is renowned for its outstanding acoustics, letting music seem to float through the air—a memorable experience. from classical to jazz to experimental music, the casa da música offers a wide range of concerts, making it a lively destination for music lovers of all kinds.
faculdade de arquitetura
the faculty of architecture in porto, or the “faculdade de arquitetura da universidade do porto,” is a gem of modern portuguese architecture that attracts enthusiasts from around the world. designed by álvaro siza, one of portugal’s most renowned architects and a pritzker prize winner, the building is considered a postwar architectural masterpiece. its design is a tribute to clean lines and the play of light and shadow, exemplifying how architecture can blend seamlessly into its natural surroundings. the faculty sits along the douro river, offering breathtaking views from almost every corner of the building—a constant inspiration for those who study or teach here.
the buildings are crafted in white concrete, which takes on a nearly magical quality in the portuguese sunlight, intensifying the interplay with the shadows cast by each structure. siza didn’t just create a campus here; he crafted a dynamic environment that encourages experimentation and reflection, which makes this place so special. the teaching approach is also highly regarded, as architecture is taught here not merely as a technical discipline, but as an art form that positively impacts people’s lives. for architecture fans, visiting the faculty is an absolute must. even simply wandering through the serene, geometrically arranged courtyards or gazing out the large windows onto the river gives one the feeling of being in a place that invites creativity and awe.
another element
that made porto so special for me: the street musicians.
at any time of day or night, you could find street musicians on nearly every corner, adding a musical layer to the beautiful memories i have of porto. their melodies drifted through the streets, giving the city an extra touch of warmth and life, making each moment feel like part of a personal soundtrack that i’ll carry with me.
to be continued…