Emanuel Sousa, along with his sister Patricia, are both co-creators of ROSA ET AL, a boutique hotel in the art steeped district, Cedofeita in Porto, Portugal. A multi- disciplinary visionary, Emanuel is an artist, architect, painter, writer, chef, actor, director and designer. This article is part of a multi feature that highlights Emanuel’s endeavours and his favourite spots in the district, including the best designers, galleries, vintage shops, theatres and more. Together they create the perfect Porto guide tailored to creatives who love to travel (yet are never tourists), have exceptional taste and an appreciation for great design.
If you are looking for your new favorite travel destination for worldly inspiration, look no further than Porto. Portugal’s second largest, it’s home to a growing community of artists that is fast becoming the heart of the city, bridging the old with the new, the known with the soon to be discovered. Succinctly labeled ‘the art spot”, the community rests within the larger district of Cedofeita, around the intersection of Rua Miguel Bombarda and Rua do Rosário.
Multi talent and co-creator of ROSA ET AL contemporary guesthouse, Emanuel Sousa offers his insights into the best the area has to offer.
What to do, where to stay and where to go in Porto’s ‘art spot’ in Cedofeita
The best place to stay in Porto
We at NH&P can speak with first hand experience and highly recommend Emanuel and his sister Patricia’s ROSA ET AL Townhouse (http://www.rosaetal.pt/), an artfully restored mid century contemporary guest house that serves the best brunch in the city and is a temple of well designed relaxation. (You can read more about ROSA ET AL here)
Emanuel’s picks
What to do in Porto’s art spot
Near ROSA ET AL you can take a slow tempo promenade through the romantic gardens at Jardim do Palácio de Cristal (Porto’s Crystal Palace and gardens). “The views over the river and Douro are magnificent.” (http://www.visitporto.travel/visitar/paginas/viagem/DetalhesPOI.aspx?POI=1031)
JARDIM DAS VIRTUDES (http://www.visitporto.travel/visitar/paginas/viagem/DetalhesPOI.aspx?POI=1002) “- …a great place for drinks and sunsets, a quiet walk with more amazing views over the river.”
Where to shop in Porto
EARLYMADE store (www.earlymade.pt) “One of my favorite shops.”
SCAR ID store (http://scar-id.com/en/ ) “It has a wonderful curated selection of Portuguese and local designers and makers, just around the corner from the hotel.”
CORAÇÃO ALECRIM store (http://www.coracaoalecrim.com ) “It has a vintage flare that really pleases us, a hidden gem with a selection of lovable handmade things to take home. The atmosphere is great, nicely curated by Filipa and Rita.”
PATCH store (https://www.facebook.com/patch.porto/ ) “A mix of used and new objects and clothing items, with a vintage atmosphere, curated by the lighting designer Artur Miranda.”
Artist studios and galleries in Porto
Fernando Santos (http://www.galeriafernandosantos.com) “Located not far off is the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis nearby, it has an important collection of local artists (of which pieces of their private collection are on display at ROSA ET AL).”
ALVARO NEGRELLO model maker (http://www.alvaronegrello.com ) “Also a friend, Alvaro Negreelo, from Locarno, but already a true local, who makes wonderfully detailed architectural models, working with world-renowned architects.”
Want to learn more about the art district of Porto? Make sure to check out our other Porto articles!
