Porto is a city with a long and vibrant history. Let’s dig a little deeper, straight into our list of the top 5 interesting facts about the city!
1) Portugal receives its name from the city of Porto
The Latin name for Porto was Portus Cale.
In Medieval times, the region situated north of the Douro river held the name of Condado Portucalense (Country of Portucale), which eventually led to the country of Portugal.
2) Porto ( Port wine), this sweet and so good wine, is not produced in Porto!
The famous Portuguese Port wine is produced in the beautiful Douro Valley.
Vila Nova de Gaia, 80 km from Porto on the other side of the Douro river actually stores and ages the wine in cellars.
3) The City’s nickname is Invicta
Invicta means invincible in Portuguese.
This nickname comes from the 19th Century Portuguese civil war. During this time the enemy failed to conquer Porto and the city even survived a siege that lasted more than a year.
4) Do you know why citizens of Porto are called “Tripeiros” as a nickname?
Prior to the expedition from Portus Cale for the conquest of Ceuta, in 1415, each neighbour contributed and brought supplies to the brave soldiers. Among the equipment and food, the citizens also donated all of their meat reserves. Therefore the residents only had Tripe to eat!
Afterward, the inhabitants of other cities began to call them “Tripeiros”. Far from offending, the residents of Porto accepted this nickname with pride and still use it today.
5) French Sandwich?
A ‘Francesinha’ is the city’s typical dish. However, it does not resemble a French Sandwich.
This five-layer sandwich is not for those of you with a fragile stomach! It’s made with different kinds of meat and sausage, cheese, and a delicious tomato beer sauce, and usually, comes with a huge side dish of fries and multiple cups of beer.