You see them there, standing tall and proud, reaching towards the sky. Two grand obelisks, a testament to a bygone era. You might be surprised to learn that they weren’t always here, in this beautiful Jardim do Passeio Alegre. These obelisks, crafted by the renowned architect Nicolau Nasoni in the eighteenth century, were originally located at the entrance of Quinta da Prelada, a grand estate owned by the Noronha and Meneses families. They marked the gateway to a place of luxury and elegance, a green oasis in the heart of the city. The two obelisks, like sentinels, stood guard over the estate for many years. They have witnessed the passage of time, the rise and fall of empires, and the evolution of the city around them.
They were moved to their current location in 1937. It wasn’t an easy task, transporting the obelisks. They were made of granite, each a testament to the mastery of stonework. They were meticulously carved with intricate details. The journey from their original home was a testament to the importance the city placed on preserving its heritage. Now they stand as reminders of a bygone era, a tribute to the families who once called the Quinta da Prelada home. As you stand in front of these magnificent obelisks, try to imagine them in their original setting. Their height, measuring almost 13 metres, was meant to be impressive. These obelisks are much more than just stone; they represent a piece of Porto’s history, its grandeur, and its enduring heritage. They whisper tales of a city in constant transformation yet anchored by its past.