The São João National Theater

The São João National Theater was built in 1798 with the primary purpose to equip Portugal’s 2nd largest city with an opera house. Named after Prince João IV, the building soon met an unfortunate fate. Destroyed by an important fire in 1908, it was rebuilt the next year by José Marques da Silva, often considered as both the last Classical architect as well as the first Modernist architect in Porto. Hence, this building, a blend between both tradition and innovation, marking a fresh and hopeful start. However, it wasn’t enough as the theater was progressively forgotten and fell into disrepair. It was bought and renovated by the state in 1992, giving a new chance to this haven of music and theatre. Are you a fan of performing arts? Then come to Porto’s National Theatre! You won’t be deceived, I promise. If you don’t have time to go to a show, know that there are still exclusive guided tours to learn more about the theater’s history and cultural significance.