São Bento Station

Overview

São Bento Station is Porto's main railway station, famous for its entrance hall lined with 20,000 azulejo tiles depicting Portuguese history—from the Battle of Aljubarrota to the arrival of King John I in Porto.

Highlights

• Azulejo panels: 20,000 hand-painted blue-and-white tiles by Jorge Colaço (1905–1916).
• Historical scenes: Panels depict battles, processions, and rural life.
• Architecture: The Beaux-Arts building is a monument in itself.

History

Built on the site of a Benedictine monastery, the station opened in 1916. Jorge Colaço spent 11 years painting the tile panels.

Visitor Tips

• Free to visit: Walk in any time to see the tiles.
• Photography: Morning light illuminates the eastern panels best.
• Duration: 10–15 minutes.