The Portuguese Centre of Photography occupies the former Cadeia da Relação prison at Largo Amor de Perdição in Porto. Its exhibitions cover photography across different periods, alongside historic cameras and equipment. The building is part of the visit: former cells and stone corridors give context to its past, and upper-floor windows look out over the city. Look for the library of photography books and magazines, too. Entry is free, so it suits a short cultural stop as well as a longer visit for anyone interested in photography.
A prison building with a new purpose
The Portuguese Centre of Photography is housed in Cadeia da Relação, a former Porto prison. Its thick stone structure, corridors and cells remain visible as you move through the building, giving the visit a strong sense of place. The site’s history is closely tied to the city’s past, and the exhibitions include material about the prison and people held there.
One of its notable former prisoners was the Portuguese writer Camilo Castelo Branco. His time here connects the building to a figure in Portuguese literature, while the surviving spaces show how the complex was used. The museum opened in the building as a photography centre in 2000.
Photography, from equipment to exhibitions
Displays bring together historical photography equipment and changing exhibitions. The collection of cameras shows how photographic tools developed over time, with examples ranging from small cameras to larger pieces of equipment. Photography is the focus throughout, but the temporary shows can introduce different artists, subjects and periods. Check what is on display during your visit if you have a particular exhibition in mind.
The upper-floor library holds photography books and magazines from different countries and eras. It is a quieter place to spend time with photography in print. If you cannot find the way in, ask a museum employee for directions.
Allow time to look around
The building’s rooms and upper levels reward a slower visit. Look through the former cells and corridors, then pause at the upper-floor windows for views across Porto. The setting can feel stark, and that atmosphere is inseparable from the prison’s history. Photography displays and the building’s past sit alongside each other, so allow time for both rather than focusing only on the cameras.
The centre is free to enter. Its exhibitions and some areas can change or close during renovation work, so check the museum’s current information if you are visiting for a specific display or part of the building.
Häufige Fragen
Is the Portuguese Centre of Photography free to enter?
Yes. Entry is free.
How long should I spend at the Portuguese Centre of Photography?
Allow around 1 to 2 hours to see the exhibitions and explore the building. You may want longer if you plan to spend time in the photography library.
What can you see at the Portuguese Centre of Photography?
The centre has photography exhibitions, historic cameras and equipment, a library of photography books and magazines, and spaces from its former use as a prison.
Can you see Porto from the Portuguese Centre of Photography?
Yes. Upper-floor windows provide views over the city.
