Paratrooper Monument

Category: Civil Architecture > Monument

District: Aveiro > Aveiro > Fonte Nova > Glória e Vera Cruz

Location

The Paratrooper Monument is located in the city of Aveiro, in the Fonte Nova area, belonging to the Union of Parishes of Glória and Vera Cruz. It is situated in a roundabout, on Avenida dos Congressos da Oposição Democrática.

This Fonte Nova area is one of Aveiro's most dynamic urban zones, characterized by the presence of canals that mirror the surrounding architecture, contributing to a pleasant and easily accessible ambiance in the city center.

The Paratrooper Figure

The sculpture depicts a life-sized paratrooper, with full equipment, at the instant preceding the jump. The figure is represented with arms raised to chest level, holding onto an airplane door frame, which rises higher on one side, passing over the soldier.

This work is a faithful replica of an original sculpture, created by Francisco and Major Libertário. On the door frame, one can read the inscription: “QUE NUNCA POR VENCIDOS SE CONHEÇAM” (THAT THEY MAY NEVER BE KNOWN AS DEFEATED), accompanied by the Cross of Christ, a motto deeply connected to the identity of the Portuguese paratrooper troop. At the base of the monument, another inscription declares: “PARAQUEDISTAS SAÚDAM A CIDADE DE AVEIRO” (PARATROOPERS GREET THE CITY OF AVEIRO).

Legacy and Recognition

Inaugurated on April 5, 2019, the Paratrooper Monument pays homage to the Portuguese paratrooper. The inauguration date coincided with the Day of Infantry Regiment No. 10 (RI 10), garrisoned in São Jacinto, and also marked the 25th anniversary of the integration of paratrooper forces into the Portuguese Army.

The monument was conceived to celebrate the strong ties between Infantry Regiment No. 10 and the community of Aveiro, recognizing the service and dedication of the paratroopers. Its existence serves as a visible reminder of the contribution of these forces in various national and international missions, honoring their history and military value.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt