Estação de São Bento is one of the most beautiful train stations in Portugal. It is located right in the heart of Porto, close to Torre dos Clérigos. This station stands out for its amazing tile art on the walls, very different from modern stations you see elsewhere. Nowadays, people pass through it every day, and many stop to take photos of the panels.

It was opened in 1916. The building was designed by architect Marques da Silva in a French Beaux-Arts style, with a big glass roof and marble floors. There are around 20,000 tiles, created by artist Jorge Colaço between 1900 and 1916. They show historic scenes from Portugal, like battles, kings, and rural life, all in blue and white. The big central panel tells the story of Egas Moniz, a medieval hero.

Estação de São Bento shows Porto’s pride in its art and history. Have you visited São Bento station? What’s your favourite tile panel there?