Instituto Geofisico da Universidade do Porto
Architectural Buildings
Historic Sites
Lookouts
Observation Decks & Towers
Science Museums
Sights & Landmarks
Attraction
About
Guided tour by Porto Secret Spots In Gaia, in the middle of Serra do Pilar, there is a centenary building that goes almost unnoticed in the landscape: it is the Geophysical Institute of the University of Porto. Created in 1885 behind the Serra do Pilar Monastery, the Institute keeps two secrets from the crowds: - a seismic station built in 1962 by the United States of America, officially for "scientific research", but which put Porto on the map of the cold war between the two superpowers; - is the only place on Earth where it is possible to see all 6 bridges that connect Gaia to Porto, from Arrábida to Freixo. Come learn about earthquakes and nuclear tests and discover the American lie that marked this history.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes