PRESERVING ABSURDITY

SERRALVES
PORTO, PORTUGAL

Serralves seems to be a location created by Wes Anderson or at the very least, commissioned by some rabidly obsessed and irresponsibly wealthy fan of his aesthetic. We know this is not the first Wes Anderson connection made when visiting this stunning space, and it certainly won’t be the last, but we’d be liars if it wasn’t the first thing that came to mind when setting our eyes on the pink Charles Siclis-designed home, the centerpiece of this artistic enclave. The odd and quirky pieces in the gallery space, the oversized installations and sculptures in the garden—all of it is so quaint and well placed that you can hear the record drop on some obscure 1960s Porto pop album as you wind through each space. 

Indie film likeness aside, Serralves is the highlight of any Porto visit, and for good reason. It’s difficult to water down an experience so unique and wonderfully weird, ensuring visitors are unlikely to forget every quirky detail. From the wild exhibits in the main gallery house to the tranquil serenity of the tea house that sits in the center of the art garden, there’s something for every type of art lover.

It’s not hard to see what makes Serralves so special. It’s a truly lovely space that implements the fantastically weird and wonderfully odd magic of Porto. Whether it’s the lobby chandelier made entirely of tampons or the helicopter that seems purpose built for a Liberace World Tour, the absurd charm of Porto is on full display. Give yourself enough time to explore every building in its entirety, and be sure to pay it a visit, particularly on a sunny day, the Art Gardens cannot be missed. 

Book your tickets.
Price: 20€

Closed on December 25 and January 1.
On December 24 and 31 closes at 4pm.

MON-FRI: 10am - 6pm
SAT/SUN/HOL:10am - 7pm

It’s not hard to see what makes Serralves so special. It’s a truly lovely space that implements the fantastically weird and wonderfully odd magic of Porto. Whether it’s the lobby chandelier made entirely of tampons or the helicopter that seems purpose built for a Liberace World Tour, the absurd charm of Porto is on full display. Give yourself enough time to explore every building in its entirety, and be sure to give it a visit, particularly on a sunny day, the Art Gardens cannot be missed.