The riverfront and Barredo seen from the Major Seminary of Porto

1941 photograph of Praça da Ribeira (Ribeira Square) and surrounding houses. The transformation of the square in the 18th century was part of the city’s renovation under the administration of João de Almada e Melo. Among those who contributed, one who particularly stands out is the British consul John Whitehead, who proposed the construction of a square enclosed by arcades, which was only partially built. The later construction of new pavements altered the original design of this square and of the then new Rua de São João (St. John’s Street).