During my childhood, I was tasked with depicting my favorite location in an art class assignment. Using vibrant oil crayons, I portrayed the museum where I frequently spent my weekends, adorned with sculptures and artworks in ornate frames. Being a museum enthusiast, I eagerly embraced the opportunity to explore Porto’s latest cultural hub, brimming with museums.
World of Wine Porto, abbreviated as WOW, comprises a total of seven museums, with six being permanent establishments and one featuring rotating exhibits. Additionally, the district houses twelve restaurants, a wine school, and various shops offering a range of products from local art to novelty items like rubber ducks. Despite its launch in 2020, a challenging period for such an ambitious venture, the district has already garnered significant popularity.
Each museum within WOW delves into different aspects of Portugal’s rich history and culture, covering topics from the history of chocolate to cork production and the tradition of wine consumption through the ages, catering to visitors of all ages.
During our visit on a bustling Saturday, tourists and locals alike thronged the district to explore the offerings at WOW. Commencing our tour at The Chocolate Story, we delved into the origins and cultural significance of chocolate from ancient civilizations like the Aztecs and Mayans to contemporary times. The museum, thoughtfully curated with descriptions in English and Portuguese, offered a comprehensive insight into the world of chocolate. Subsequently, visitors could venture downstairs to the WOW Chocolate Factory, witnessing workers attired in bright yellow outfits tempering and pouring chocolate, which could be purchased at the gift shop or café.
Following a delectable chocolate tasting experience that heightened our appreciation for this luxurious treat, we proceeded to the Wine Experience.
This museum, meticulously researched and presented, traced the history of wine and showcased the diverse wine-producing regions in Portugal known for their exquisite grapes and wines. The museum seamlessly blended education with hands-on experiences, featuring interactive displays and captivating documentaries.
Although not a fan of wine, the Wine Experience significantly altered my perspective. The meticulous process behind wine production showcased at the museum can truly make one appreciate the effort involved. Furthermore, the tasting session at the culmination of the tour, guided by an expert, introduced visitors to three distinct wines and the art of savoring them.
One of the highlights of WOW was the proximity of its attractions. All the museums were situated within a five-minute walk from each other, allowing us to visit five museums in a single day. Nestled in Vila Nova de Gaia’s historic center, a brief half-hour stroll from Porto, WOW offers breathtaking views of the city from its location on the south side of the Douro River.
The picturesque setting of red terracotta roofs cascading down the hillside, coupled with the bustling activity of tourists meandering through the city’s winding streets, creates a charming ambiance. As night falls, the cityscape comes alive with twinkling lights and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge spanning the river, casting a luminous glow.
After a full day of museum exploration and wine tasting, our appetites led us to one of WOW’s esteemed restaurants.
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