Have you ever wondered how Portugal got its name? Right here, in the heart of Porto, lies the answer to that question. This ancient Roman town, known as *Calçada romana*, is where the story of the country’s name begins. This site, a piece of Roman history, is hidden beneath the bustling streets of Porto.
The city of Porto, which you’re standing in, is also named after this site. This Roman trading post was called *Portus Cale*. It’s a reminder of how history influences cities like Porto. From this early settlement of *Portus Cale*, the subsequent *Condado de Portucale*, a region, and eventually the country of Portugal, emerged.
The Romans recognized the strategic importance of the *Calçada romana*. Its location at the mouth of the Douro River, right by the Atlantic Ocean, made it a key link for trading goods. This gave rise to a prosperous commercial hub, connecting *Olisipo*, the modern-day Lisbon, to *Bracara Augusta*, the modern-day Braga. You can still see remnants of this past right beneath your feet, in the *Calçada romana*.
Today, the *Calçada romana* is a time machine. While it may be just a small piece of history, every visitor can feel the weight of the legacy that lies beneath their feet. It’s a reminder that even the smallest settlements can influence the entire course of the world, and the world of Portugal, right here in Porto.