In summer, beaches are one of the most common options for moments of relaxation. However, for those who like little (or nothing) to do with sand, it’s best to look for water parks and, of course, swimming pools. That’s why we’re continuing to (re)discover some of the most beautiful in Greater Porto. This time, we take you to the Quinta da Conceição Swimming Pool.
Located in Leça da Palmeira, in the municipality of Matosinhos , less than 15 minutes from Porto, depending on traffic, this place presents itself as a discreet and charming refuge. Here you’ll find a space surrounded by a pleasant green park, combining leisure, architecture and historical and cultural heritage.
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A brief historical context
The park, which houses the swimming pool designed by the famous architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, has a history dating back to the 15th century. At that time, the area was home to the Convent of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, of which some remains have survived to the present day, such as the cloister, the Manueline portal, some fountains and the chapel of São Francisco.
After the extinction of the religious orders in the 19th century, the site was sold at public auction and much of its heritage was lost. Today, Quinta da Conceição belongs to Matosinhos City Council, which has transformed it into a park open to the public, with gardens and leisure areas.
The unique architecture of the swimming pool
In the 1960s, Quinta da Conceição was the target of important interventions led by Fernando Távora, one of the great names in 20th century Portuguese architecture. However, the authorship of the local swimming pool is attributed to another key figure not only at national level, but also worldwide: Siza Vieira.
The Quinta da Conceição swimming pool is the work of architect Álvaro Siza Vieira and was inaugurated in 1965,” reads the Matosinhos Sport website.
Despite the fact that it is not as renowned as the Piscina das Marés, also designed by the architect who has already won a Pritzker Prize, the Quinta da Conceição pool stands out for its minimalist and harmonious design, as well as the way it is perfectly integrated into the park.
Useful information about the Quinta da Conceição Swimming Pool
As well as the pool, you’ll find other facilities , such as changing rooms and a bar/lounge. It should also be noted that the pool is only open during the bathing season, so this year it opened its doors on June 14 and closes on August 31.
If you want to try it out, here are the opening times and prices:
- The pool is open every day from 9am to 7pm
- Babies up to two years old are free
- Children over two and under 13: weekdays (except public holidays) – €4.50 (full ticket) / €2.50 (half day); weekends and public holidays: €5 (full day) / €3 (half day)
- Adults and young people (over 13): weekdays (except public holidays) – €7 (full day) / €4 (half day); weekends and public holidays: €9 (full day) / €5 (half day)
More than just a place to swim, this pool is an invitation to relax and a kind of refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. A vacation spot that is also a symbol of modern architecture!
📍Av. Antunes Guimarães, 13 or Rua de Vila Franca, Leça da Palmeira – Matosinhos
ℹ️ More information: +351 229 364 090
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