Portuguese Centre of Photography in Porto: free entry, opening hours and the former prison

Updated on October 18, 2026

The Portuguese Centre of Photography (Centro Português de Fotografia) occupies Porto's former prison and court of appeal, a large 18th-century building on Largo Amor de Perdição, a stone's throw from the Clérigos Tower. The writer Camilo Castelo Branco was imprisoned here and wrote his novel "Amor de Perdição" in it, hence the name of the square. The cells and granite courtyards now house photography exhibitions and a collection of old cameras. Entry is free, which makes it one of the best cultural outings in the centre.

Highlights

The courtyard of the former prison

The barred doors, granite walls and small windows are a reminder that the place was a prison until 1974. Temporary exhibitions are set up in former cells and vaulted rooms.

The exhibition rooms

The stone vaults and white walls provide a setting for exhibitions by Portuguese and foreign photographers, which change several times a year.

The old cameras

The centre keeps cameras from different eras, including 19th-century stereoscopic cameras. A good complement for understanding the history of the technique.

Practical info

Tips

Entry is free. The exhibition rooms are open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm; the centre is closed on Mondays. A cloakroom is available; animals are admitted only if they are assistance dogs. Guided visits must be booked in advance by email ([email protected]); the shop is open only Tuesday to Friday from 2pm to 5pm. Exhibitions change: check the programme on the official website before you go. Next to the Clérigos Tower, it combines with the Livraria Lello and the Bolhão Market.

How to get there

Centro Português de Fotografia, Largo Amor de Perdição, 4050-008 Porto (former Cadeia e Tribunal da Relação). A few minutes' walk from the Clérigos Tower and the Cordoaria, in the historic centre. See also our guide to getting around Porto.