Estação de São Bento is a small but tremendously decorated railway station in the center of Porto (Portugal). The station is located quite close to the Liberdade Square in a one minute distance from the monument of Dom Pedro the IVth and less than a ten-minute walk from the Dom Luis the Ist bridge. The place is definitely on the must-see list while visiting Porto.

The station’s construction began in the late 19th century and continued into the early 20th century under the direction of architect José Marques da Silva. Its elegant architecture seamlessly blends Belle Époque and Beaux-Arts styles. The internal walls of the main hall are fully covered with traditional Portuguese tile work (called azulejos) depicting scenes of the Portuguese history, showcasing moments like battles, royal processions, and everyday life. The pictures had been compiled of more than 20,000 single tiles.

In addition to São Bento, Marques da Silva left a lasting legacy through numerous other buildings, including schools, banks, and private residences. Trained at the Academy of Fine Arts in Porto and later at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, Marques da Silva’s work is characterized by a fusion of various architectural styles, including Beaux-Arts and Art Nouveau, showcasing a versatile and innovative approach to design.