The Exchange Palace is one of Porto's most famous landmarks and can be found next to the Convent of St. Francis.

The palace's grey neoclassical façade, dating back to 1850, may not particularly impress visitors at first glance, but it certainly shouldn't deter you from visiting the magnificent inner halls.

The magnificent interiors

Upon entering the palace, you are greeted by a central hall covered by an octagonal glass dome. The courtyard was decorated by artist Tomás Soler and is particularly striking for its painted coats of arms of Portugal and the countries with which Portugal had trade relations in the 19th century.

One of the greatest treasures of the Palácio da Bolsa is undoubtedly the Arab Hall, built between 1862 and 1880. Its chief architect was Goncalves e Sousa and the interior is decorated in an exotic Moorish style.