Casa da Música

As part of Porto 2001, European Capital of Culture, the Casa da Música was first planned in 1998, when it was announced that Porto and Amsterdam would be the capitals in 2001.

The competition was opened in 1999 and after three phases the project by the Dutch architect Rem Koolhas was chosen. The jury for this competition included two names of Portuguese architecture, both from Oporto, namely Álvaro Siza Vieira and Eduardo Souto Moura, both winners of the Pritzker Prize.

The construction of the building had initial controversial reactions, as it occupies the space where STCP's tram collection used to be, and later after construction for the strong visual impact that changed the entire urban space.

Regardless of those reactions, it is inevitable to notice Casa da Música, its projection in the world, and the good architectural and construction work that can be experienced during the tours that this institution offers. On the other hand, Casa da Música has become an icon of the new and rejuvenated city of Oporto, as can be seen by the affluence of young people around it, skateboarding or enjoying the good weather. This project has clearly changed the life of the city.

The Casa da Música was inaugurated in 2005 and has since become a landmark of contemporary architecture.