Municipal Archive leads journey to 19th century Porto

The cycle "document of the month", which aims to connect the people to the history of the city of Porto features a free session at Casa do Infante, on 18 January, starting at 3.30 pm.

A 19th century document, a passport from the Armando Couto Collection, which was offered to the Municipal Archive in 1987 will be provided by the Municipal Archive as the starting point of this journey to the past, guided by Daniela Ferreira.

This session will remember the Portuguese from Porto who have made their fortune in Brazil in the 19th century, also known as "brasileiros de torna-viagem" [Comeback Brazillians].

Porto, a strong merchant city, welcomed this entrepreneurs and businessmen who continued their commercial transactions with Brazil, some of whom were vessel owners sailing from Portugal and Brazil, increasing the predominance of Porto as a commercial centre.

In the political scene, those "Brazilians" were people of high prestige by holding important political positions in the House of Representatives, House of Lords and also at Porto City Hall.

Theirs was a significant contribution to the renewal of the urban and productive network of the city of Porto.

One of the most reputed "comeback Brazilians" was Count da Silva Monteiro, former owner of the Palace of Restauração Street that currently houses the Commission of the Green Wines Grape Growing Region. The Count was Vice-President of Porto City Hall from 1876 to 1877.

The "Document of the Month" cycle highlights the influence of the above mentioned "Brazilians" from Porto, and help to raise awareness on important elements in the characterisation of the city.

Participation is free but prior registration is mandatory.

More information at:

Municipal Historical Archive of Porto

Phone: (00351) 222 060 423

casadoinfante@cm-porto.pt