Ever wondered where the courage of FC Porto comes from? We are standing before Símbolo. It holds a key to understanding the spirit of this city and its beloved football club.
Símbolo represents more than just a gallery. It embodies the very essence of FC Porto. To truly grasp its significance we need to delve into the history of the club’s logo.
FC Porto was founded in 1893 by António Nicolau d’Almeida. He was a merchant deeply involved in the port wine trade with England. The club’s foundation coincided with the birthday of King Carlos I and his wife Amelia. This is why the club adopted blue and white. These were the official colors of the Portuguese Royal House.
Initially the club’s logo was simple. It was a blue and white football with the acronym FCP. But a significant change occurred in 1922. The emblem of the city of Porto was added to the team’s logo. This included the image of the Virgin Mary and the emblem of Portugal with its towers and castles.
Perhaps the most important addition was the inscription “Invicta”. It means invincible. The dragon was also added. This symbol of courage became synonymous with FC Porto. From that moment the team was nicknamed “the dragons”. The dragon was borrowed from the crest of Portugal. However in 1935 the dragon was removed from the country’s emblem. FC Porto kept it. The club explained that it was not ashamed of the brave mythological beast.
The FC Porto emblem consists of two coats of arms. It also contains the inscription and the dragon. Remarkably the emblem has remained virtually unchanged since then. Designers have proposed new versions but the club has rejected them. It seems that the leaders and fans of Porto are too conservative to change their emblem.
The main colors of the FC Porto logo are blue and white. They represent the official colors of the Portuguese Royal House. The choice of blue also has its own story. Originally the colors were to be white and green. However FC Porto decided to adopt the colors of the Portuguese flag. This gesture was to promote the country and the club. Heraldically the logo symbolizes calm and purity.
Símbolo in Porto allows us to see the enduring symbols of FC Porto. These symbols represent courage, invincibility, and a deep connection to the city’s history. As you leave Símbolo consider the weight of these symbols. Think about how they continue to inspire the “dragons” on the field and the hearts of their fans.