World of Discoveries is a brand new theme park and museum that has only recently opened and is situated on the Rua de Miragaia in Miragaia, Porto. Based on the history of the Portuguese Discoveries, it offers visitors the chance to embark on the epic journeys of the Portuguese explorers for themselves through a range of interactive displays.
Larger-than-life characters and sceneries from the different sea routes will be encountered by those who take advantage of the tours, which are all drawn from lands historically mapped by the Portuguese, including great explorers like Henry the Navigator and Vasco de Gama, the latter being the first man to reach India by sea from Europe by sailing around the Cape of Good Hope. Indeed, part of the visit is made by a boat navigating through the continents – so this really is an unmissable attraction.
Navigation instruments and maps are on display in one of the many rooms of the centre, as well as a 4D globe that demonstrates how much of the world was known about in different periods throughout history. School groups are welcomed at the attraction, with guided tours available to complement the entry ticket. These take place at 10am and 5pm, with each lasting approximately one hour. A guide will remain with the group throughout the visit, and they will be on hand to provide additional information about the historical context of the displays. All guides are specially trained in the history of the 16th century, so they are thoroughly prepared to answer any question from visitors. Business-orientated multilingual programmes are also available.
The attraction’s restaurant is open every day of the week and offers some fantastic food from all regions of the world. Tickets are priced at €14 for adults aged 13 to 64. Seniors over the age of 65 and students can get in for €11, while entry for children aged four to 12 is €8. Under-fours are free and discounted prices are available for those booking in advance online.
