Recognised as a major force in world football, FC Porto has accumulated an impressive array of titles in recent years. In 2004, they became one of only two clubs ever to take the UEFA cup title and become European Champions. On home soil, the Dragons have 22 league victories, taking 5 consecutive wins to achieve the magic “Penta”. FC Porto also hold 13 Portuguese Cups.
After the disappointing 2004-05 season, following Jose Mourinho's departure, FCP administration knew they had to make some changes, starting with the sacking of Vitor Fernandez and the signing of key new contracts. Among others, Lucho Gonazalez, Lisandro Lopez and the winger Jorginho joined the club and the new manager, Dutch coach Co Adriaanse has turned the team around and back up the standard of the Jose Morinho years.
Last season, FC Porto took the league title once again.
Honours: 2 Champions League titles in 1987 and 2004 UEFA Cup winners 2003 22 league titles 13 Cup victories
People to Watch: Quaresma Nuno, who played in the 2004 squad and is back at the club this season.
Out and About: Porto is a medieval city built on granite cliffs on Portugal’s Atlantic coast. Classified as a World Heritage Site, it has an interesting eclectic mix of architecture of different eras marking Porto's power. The city is home to many museums, the Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis being of particular interest.
Take a stroll on the medieval waterfront and the winding lanes behind it that make up the 'Ribeira' district. Porto's look is defined by the traditional blue and white tiles that clad many buildings. One of the best places to see them is in the Se Cathedral, situated on the clifftop: visit it also for great views of the city.
The city has a vibrant night life, with trendy cafes and good bars. The Casa de Musica offers lots of music related activities for children.
Salt cod is the Portuguese national dish which must be tasted!
We Recommend: Lonely Planet, Portugal www.visitportugal.com
