Casa do Infante

Interesting facts

1. 1

   Excavations inside the building revealed a 1st-century Roman mosaic, proving the site was inhabited long before the medieval structure was built.

2. 2

   The building functioned as the Royal Mint for centuries, producing the currency used for Portuguese maritime expansion.

3. 3

   It served as the Alfândega (Customs House) from the 14th century until the mid-19th century, controlling all trade entering and leaving the port.

4. 4

   The structure survived several major city fires and sieges, including the Siege of Porto in 1832.

5. 5

   Its location on the R. da Alfândega was chosen specifically for its proximity to the Douro River, allowing direct control over incoming shipping traffic.

Overview

Casa do Infante, also known as the Alfândega Velha, is a historical building in Porto that has served as the royal customs house, mint, and administrative center since the 14th century. It is traditionally associated with the birth of Prince Henry the Navigator in 1394. The museum houses archaeological remains dating back to the Roman period, including mosaics and foundation walls discovered during excavations in the 1980s. Visitors can explore the architectural evolution of the site, which integrates medieval, Renaissance, and neoclassical elements. The exhibits focus on the economic and social history of Porto, specifically its maritime trade and the evolution of the city's port. It operates under the Porto City Museum network. The site provides a direct link to the medieval topography of the Ribeira district.

Insider tips

• Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding narrow medieval streets of the UNESCO World Heritage Ribeira district.

• Pay close attention to the floor level displays, as the building's archaeological layers are best viewed from the designated walkways.

• Check the Porto City Museum website in advance, as they occasionally host rotating contemporary installations that contrast with the historic architecture.