“Piratas!” The cry would have echoed across the Porto coast centuries ago. Right here at Forte de Nossa Senhora das Neves, history whispers tales of defense and resilience. This fort also known as Forte de Leça da Palmeira or Castelo de Matosinhos stands as a sentinel against threats from the sea.
Construction of Forte de Nossa Senhora das Neves started in 1638 or 1639. D. João Rodrigues Sá e Menezes, the 1st Conde de Penaguião, ordered its construction. It was built on the site of Santa Catarina. The fort aimed to defend the port against pirates and corsairs. Captain António Francisco Chorão was in charge.
After Portugal regained its independence, officials from the Porto Municipal Chamber recognized the fort’s strategic importance. In 1642 they asked the King to complete the works quickly. Work restarted in 1646. In 1648 a decree established a garrison of six paid soldiers for the fort. But the work was not finished in 1655.
A report from 1701 says the fort was still incomplete. Yet it had four artillery pieces and eight soldiers. A lieutenant commanded them. The Forte de Nossa Senhora das Neves was likely completed around 1720.
Forte de Nossa Senhora das Neves also played a role during the Liberal Wars. In 1832 improvements were made. These included the warehouses, drawbridge, moat staircase, and parapets.
In the 20th century, the facilities were given to the Port Authority of Leixões. They built buildings on its esplanade for staff accommodation. This changed the character of the site. Since December 5, 1961, it has been classified as a Public Interest Property. Today, it remains in good condition.
Strategically, Forte de Nossa Senhora das Neves was part of a coastal defense line. It worked with the forts of S. João de la Foz and S. Francisco Xavier also known as Cheese Castle. Together, they protected Porto’s coastline. The fort has a four-pointed star shape. It has guardhouses with cupolas at the corners. Inclined curtains defend it externally.
The name “Nossa Senhora das Neves” is intriguing. There is no written justification for it. But the name may come from a ship called “Senhora das Neves”. Two hundred years earlier, it brought a statue of Nossa Senhora da Conceição from Coimbra to Leça da Palmeira. Diogo Pires, “O Velho”, made the statue. This statue is now a valuable piece in the main church of Leça da Palmeira.
Historically, forts often had saints’ names. This increased the sense of security for people and soldiers. Even today, near the Forte de Nossa Senhora das Neves, a re-creation called “Os Piratas” happens in July. This event brings many visitors to Leça da Palmeira. Pirates capture our imagination. Both adults and children love them.
So as you stand here, remember the centuries of history embedded in these stones. The Forte de Nossa Senhora das Neves stands not just as a structure but as a testament to resilience. It reminds us of the constant vigilance required to protect a city and a nation. It also embodies the spirit of those who stood guard against the unknown.