Learn Portuguese in Porto

Learning Portuguese abroad in Porto, Portugal is one of many language immersion programs offered by AmeriSpan. Portugal during the 14th and 15th centuries was one of the most powerful nations in the world, ruling an empire from America to Asia. Although Portugal shares the Iberian Peninsula with Spain, its language and culture are unique. Its shores are lined with sandy beaches and its towns range in size from cosmopolitan cities to charming fishing villages. Modern Portugal, with its stable democracy and fast-growing economy, has brought about cultural revival and international recognition.

Learn Portuguese Language in Portugal:
As the second largest city in Portugal, Porto is this city's official name, however many foreigners refer to it as Oporto. The names are direct from the city's greatest claim to fame, port wine and the reference to the port. There is much more to this lively city built on the granite bluffs above the Rio Duoro then its port wine. This sophisticated and modern city is a center for all types of arts and commerce.

The city prospered under the Romans and was the birthplace of Prince Henry the Navigator, a driving force behind the great maritime discoveries of the 15th and 16th centuries. A trading agreement with England in 1703 bought wealth to the town and saw the start of the famous Port wine trade.

Today, the regions of this city all possess unique atmospheres when comparing each neighborhood. The combination of twisting, narrow streets; granite churches and orange-tiled houses, the graceful bridges spanning the gorge and welcoming down to earth people helped Porto earn a place on the UNESCO World Heritage site and Cultural Capital of Europe in 2001.