Did you know that S\u00e3o Jo\u00e3o Baptista, also known as Castelo de S\u00e3o Jo\u00e3o da Foz, stands as a silent sentinel guarding Porto? This fortress has a rich history. It was built to protect the city from pirate attacks and enemy ships.
S\u00e3o Jo\u00e3o Baptista is strategically located on the right bank of the Barra do Douro. Its story began with the residence of the bishop of Viseu. An Italian architect designed the residence. It was considered the first example of Renaissance architecture in northern Portugal.
In 1567, walls were built around this house. These walls also surrounded adjacent buildings. The Church of S\u00e3o Jo\u00e3o Baptista and the chapel of S\u00e3o Miguel-o-Anjo were included. This construction occurred during the reign of D. Sebasti\u00e3o. Its strategic location was essential for the city’s defense. Over the years, several interventions were made to prevent attacks from Portugal’s enemies.
After 60 years of Spanish rule, Portugal regained its independence. King D. Jo\u00e3o I wanted to assess the state of national fortresses. He wanted to strengthen them. The French engineer Charles Lassart was sent to Porto. He planned the necessary works for the fort. It was decided to demolish the church and residence. This made the fortress safer. Once the works were complete, troops were stationed here.
In the 18th century, S\u00e3o Jo\u00e3o Baptista had four ramparts and 18 artillery pieces. By the end of that century, further security measures were needed. The completion of the pit and the construction of two batteries were deemed necessary. In 1798, a neoclassical portal was added. It included a drawbridge. This replaced the original door.
As naval deployment and defense capabilities evolved, S\u00e3o Jo\u00e3o Baptista lost its importance in the 19th century. By the mid-20th century, it was abandoned. Later, it was recognized as a Monument of Public Interest. In the 1980s and 1990s, cleaning and consolidation work was carried out.
Here is an interesting fact. In the 16th century, the construction was funded by a tax on salt.
During the Peninsular War, Sergeant Major Raimundo Jos\u00e9 Pinheiro occupied the fort on June 6, 1808. The next morning, he raised the Portuguese flag. This was the first act of resistance against Napoleon’s occupation.
During the Portuguese Civil War, the fort protected the landing of supplies. These supplies were for the liberal troops during the siege of Porto in 1832-1833.
In the 19th century, S\u00e3o Jo\u00e3o Baptista served as a political prison. The poet Florbela Espanca lived in the fort in the early 1920s. She was married to one of the officers stationed here.
Today, S\u00e3o Jo\u00e3o Baptista stands as a testament to Porto’s resilience. It reminds us of the city’s strategic importance throughout history. Its walls have witnessed centuries of conflict. They have also seen periods of peace and transformation. As you stand here, imagine the soldiers who once guarded this fortress. Picture the ships sailing up the Douro River. Think of the lives that have been intertwined with this historic place.