Why is the Cruzeiro do largo Damasceno here? Let’s step back in time to understand its silent story.
The Cruzeiro do largo Damasceno stands as a stoic reminder of Porto’s long history. Porto’s story began long ago. Its origins trace back to a proto-historical settlement on the hill of Sé or Penaventosa.
Centuries later, the Romans arrived. In the 1st century AD, they called the territory Cale. Port activity grew. It reinforced the area as a catalyst for the regional economy. This led to the first references to Portucale. This name would give rise to the name of Portugal.
After the establishment of the Kingdom of Portugal in the 14th century, new city walls were needed. They protected homes and businesses from threats. King D. João I appreciated Porto’s collaboration in the war against Castile. He celebrated his marriage to D. Filipa de Lencastre here. His son, Infante D. Henrique, was born and baptized in Porto.
Infante D. Henrique became known as “the Navigator”. He dedicated himself to overseas exploration. Porto and its shipyards played a key role in this effort. Many historians believe Porto’s inhabitants became known as “Tripeiros” at this time. They provided meats for the ships. They kept the entrails for themselves.
The 16th century marked a turning point for Porto. The city expanded. Improvements in navigation were needed. Commercial development and shipbuilding led to population growth. The city expanded beyond its walls.
The forts defending the harbor and city were improved. Large green spaces were created for the public. The foreign population began to have a visible impact. The British established a strong presence. They were closely associated with the port wine trade.
The history of Porto intersects with the French Revolution. Napoleon declared himself Emperor of France. He imposed a continental blockade on British ships. The regent prince, D. João, tried to delay honoring the old alliance. Franco-Spanish troops invaded Portugal. The court moved to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The collapse of the Ponte das Barcas was a famous disaster in Porto’s history. It happened on March 29, 1809. Troops led by General Soult arrived in Porto. They defeated the militias and sacked the city. The population gathered on the Ponte das Barcas to prevent enemy troops from crossing south. The bridge collapsed and hundreds died.
The city was liberated with the help of Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington. General Soult fled. The city faced difficult times with food shortages.
The Liberal Revolution of Porto took place on August 24, 1820. It had significant repercussions for Portuguese and Brazilian history. The “Siege of Porto” devastated the city from 1832 to 1834.
Porto gradually progressed after these tumultuous years. Gas lighting was introduced. Cafés became centers for leisure. Industrialization arrived. The D. Maria Pia Bridge ensured a railway connection to the south.
At the end of the 19th century, the “English Ultimatum” created anti-British sentiment. The Republican Revolt of January 31, 1891, followed. Portugal established a Republic in 1910.
General Humberto Delgado’s candidacy in the 1958 presidential elections brought hope. He was greeted by supporters in Porto. He said his heart would stay in Porto. The city regained its freedom with the end of the dictatorship on April 25, 1974.
Porto’s historic center became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
So, as you stand here, remember the layers of history beneath your feet. The Cruzeiro do largo Damasceno has silently witnessed centuries of change. It is a symbol of Porto’s resilience.