Coliseu do Porto

Coliseu do Porto is one of the city's main concert and live-entertainment halls, standing in central Porto at Rua de Passos Manuel 137. Built in the early 1940s, it is a showpiece of Portuguese Art Deco in its streamline moderne form, and it now works mainly as a stage for big concerts and cultural events.

What is the Coliseu and who designed it?

The building opened on 19 December 1941. Its architects were Cassiano Branco, Júlio Brito and Mário Abreu. Construction began in the late 1930s (sources give either 1937 or 1938) on the site of the Salão Jardim Passos Manuel, a leisure hall and cinema dating from 1908. Its facade and interiors are regularly listed among the best Art Deco landmarks in Porto, alongside the nearby Batalha cinema.

What happens here, and how big is it?

The hall hosts touring concerts, festivals, theatre and large shows. In a standing layout it holds around 4,000 people, and roughly 3,000 when seated, making it one of the biggest indoor venues in the city. The building also houses the Salão Ático, a historic upper-floor hall that has been renovated as a smaller event space. The venue currently trades as Coliseu Porto Ageas.

What has happened to the building since?

In 1995, locals protested a planned sale of the property to a religious organisation, and the deal did not go ahead. A fire in 1996 wrecked much of the interior, including the stage and dressing rooms; the hall was rebuilt and returned to use. The building is protected as a heritage monument. In recent years Portuguese media have covered the need for urgent renovation work and the debate over how to fund it.

How do I get there, and when should I go?

The entrance is on Rua de Passos Manuel, in the heart of the centre, a short distance from Praça da Batalha and the Aliados area, so most Baixa hotels are within walking distance. Interior visits depend on the programme, so the easiest way in is a ticket to a show. Check dates and prices at the box office or on the venue's official website. For big concerts, arrive early, as entering the hall takes time.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Coliseu do Porto?

At Rua de Passos Manuel 137 in central Porto, near Praça da Batalha.

Who designed it and when did it open?

Cassiano Branco with Júlio Brito and Mário Abreu; it opened on 19 December 1941.

How many people does it hold?

About 3,000 seated and up to 4,000 standing, depending on the event set-up.

Can I see the interior without a concert ticket?

The interior is easiest to see at an event. For visits outside performances, ask at the box office or check the venue's website.