The Museum Infante Dom Henrique, or simply Casa do Infante, is one of the iconic buildings of the city of Porto, which is impossible not to see when visiting the city. Also known as the House of the Old Customs Street, the current museum is also one of the oldest buildings in Porto, believed to be where Prince Henry was born.
But who was Infante Dom Henrique? Also known as Henry the Navigator, he was one of the most important members of the Portuguese royal family during the 15th century. He was the one who drove the exploration and discovery voyages that led Portugal to become one of the world’s leading maritime powers.
Infante Dom Henrique de Avis was Grand Master of the Order of Christ (holder of the property of the Knights Templar in Portugal) and is one of the most important names in Portuguese discoveries, as he was one of its main drivers. One proof of his importance in the history of Portugal is the fact that his remains were deposited in the Monastery of Batalha.
The Casa Museum Infante Dom Henrique is located on the banks of the river and was built in the 14th century, by order of King Alfonso IV, even against the will of the bishop, in order to collect all the goods that docked in Porto. The old Porto Customs building was very different from what it is today, which has been undergoing a series of changes, modifications, renovations, and expansions over the centuries.
Visit the Museum Infante Dom Henrique – Infante Dom Henrique of Avis was the Grand Master of the Order of Christ and is one of the most important names in Portuguese discoveries.
The mint or the Municipal Historical Archive also passed through its facilities, for example. Classified since 1924 as a municipal monument, due to its importance, the Casa Museum Infante Dom Henrique is now a small museum that is part of the city museum, which also preserves, in addition to the history of customs and the mint, the archaeological finds made in the 1990s, which allows us to understand the local history from Roman occupation to the present day.
A visit to the city of Porto can hardly be complete without a visit to this remarkable building of the city’s cultural history, both for its aesthetic beauty and its history or the importance of its collection.
In summary, the Museum Infante Dom Henrique is an essential place for those who want to learn more about the history and culture of Portugal. Inside, you will find fascinating exhibitions and a historic building full of charm and mystery. Don’t miss it!
SUGGESTION:
Visit this building because it is part of the history of the city of Porto.
