Praça da Liberdade, A Historic Hub of Culture and Charm
Dom Pedro IV, Praça da Liberdade, Aliados, Santo Ildefonso, Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, São Nicolau and Vitória, Porto, Metropolitan Area of Porto, North, 4000-322, Portugal
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Introduction
The Freedom Square in the Santo Ildefonso neighborhood of the lower town of Porto is a historic square, originally called New Square, built in 1718. The square was once surrounded by medieval city walls and palaces, which no longer exist. In 1788, the Lóios Order built a monastery on the south side of the square to replace the medieval walls. The oldest surviving building on the square is the Cardosas Palace, which is over 200 years old and located on the south side.
In the 19th century, a series of factors increased the importance of the Freedom Square. The city government moved to the north side of the square, and the Louis I Bridge (1887) and the San Bento Train Station (1896) were built nearby. As a result, the Freedom Square became the political, economic, and social center of Porto.
In 1866, French sculptor Anatole Calmels erected a statue of Pedro IV on a horse in the center of the square.
After 1916, the appearance of the Freedom Square underwent significant changes. The city hall was demolished, and the modern Avenida dos Aliados was built on the north side of the square. The buildings around the Freedom Square were occupied by banks, hotels, restaurants, and offices. Today, the Freedom Square is an important tourist attraction in Porto, attracting many visitors to sightsee and play. Address Dom Pedro IV, Praça da Liberdade, Aliados, Santo Ildefonso, Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, São Nicolau and Vitória, Porto, Metropolitan Area of Porto, North, 4000-322, Portugal
The attractions in Porto are very concentrated
