Agata Kornhauser-Duda’s visit to Portugal in October 2023 included a tour of historic landmarks and cultural treasures.
In a special trip to Portugal on October 6, 2023, Agata Kornhauser-Duda accompanied the President to attend the jubilee meeting of the Leaders of the Arraiolos Group, a gathering of European heads of state. During her visit, the First Lady embarked on a unique cultural journey with fellow First Ladies, exploring some of Portugal’s most iconic destinations.
One of the highlights was a visit to the renowned Lello Bookstore, situated in the historic heart of Porto. Often referred to as the “Harry Potter Bookstore” due to its enchanting interior, the bookstore is currently undergoing the process of being recognized as a national monument. It also played a significant role as a partner in commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising in 2023.
Agata Kornhauser-Duda also explored the Soares dos Reis National Museum, housed in the Palácio dos Carrancas. The museum showcases a diverse collection of ceramics, sculptures, engravings, jewelry, furniture, gold and silver items, paintings, glassware, and textiles. Notably, it houses the famous sculpture “The Exile” (“O Desterrado”) by António Soares dos Reis.
The First Lady’s visit also included a scenic boat tour along the “Six Bridges Cruise,” a popular route that meanders through the Douro River valley, dividing Porto into two picturesque sections.
This gathering of Arraiolos Group First Ladies has become a tradition, with previous meetings held in different countries hosting this format. In 2022, Agata Kornhauser-Duda visited Malta as part of this initiative.
Moreover, Mrs. Kornhauser-Duda had previously visited Portugal in August of the same year, participating in the World Youth Day events in Lisbon and meeting with the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. Her recent visit further strengthens the cultural and diplomatic ties between Poland and Portugal.