So the train station used to be a Benedictine convent, hence the name Benedictine Station. The church in the left of the photo was a monastery; legend has it that there used to be an underground tunnel that the nuns and clerics used to communicate—but I digress.
The blue tiles around the station tell the story of the evolution of transportation, the 4 seasons, the port wine production and the history of Portugal.
This was our local guide, George.
Lori, Michelle, Deb, Barb, Cindy, Sheila
Next the Chamber of Commerce that used to be the Stock Exchange.
The country crests are around the ceiling. Here’s the U.S.
Mosaic tile floor.
Below is the Gold Room; a former courthouse that is now used for meetings. Their motto is in Latin, translated means: We are strongly concerned about work and freedom.
Big Arabic influence all over Portugal. This Neo Arabic room below is available for rent at only E30k plus 23% VAT. Destination wedding anyone?
This room is about the monarchy of Portugal. The top of this table was carved with a pocket knife and took 4 years.
The promised Portugal trivia:
- Population in Porto: 215,000
- University famous for its architecture program has 31,000 students
- Their metro system goes 22 miles into the suburbs
- Workers mainly live in suburbs bkz the cost of housing in Porto is on ave €2850/sq meter; the ave salary is €1000/mo
- There are 12 million residents in Portugal
- 12 million tourists visit Portugal each year
Next: Coimbra and Evora.
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