Portugal Journey

Porto, a city of Tripeiros and Timeless Pride.

Anyone who visits Porto will soon hear its people affectionately called tripeiros—literally, “tripe-eaters.” But what lies behind this unusual nickname? To discover the answer, we need to travel back several centuries.

The most enduring legend dates to the early 15th century, during Portugal’s great maritime ventures. In 1415, King João I and his son, Prince Henry—later known as Henry the Navigator—secretly planned the conquest of Ceuta in North Africa.

Porto, Henry’s hometown, played a decisive role. The city’s residents, eager to support their prince, gave generously to supply the fleet. So generous, in fact, that they handed over nearly all the city’s meat to provision the ships. What was left behind for the people of Porto? Only the less noble cuts—the entrails.

With remarkable resourcefulness, locals transformed these humble ingredients into nourishing meals. What might have been seen as hardship instead became a symbol of resilience, solidarity, and ingenuity. From then on, the people of Porto carried the proud nickname tripeiros.

Six centuries later, the name remains a badge of honor. Ask a local if they are proud to be a tripeiro, and you will almost always hear a firm and enthusiastic “Of course!” For Porto’s inhabitants, the word represents more than food—it embodies a spirit of sacrifice, loyalty, and love for their city.

To truly connect with this heritage, one must taste Porto’s iconic dish: tripas à moda do Porto. More than just a recipe, it is a culinary monument to the city’s past, carrying the flavors of history onto today’s tables.

If you’d like to experience Porto’s culture and cuisine firsthand, our team is here to guide you through the traditions that make this city unforgettable.