Category: Civil Architecture > Sculpture
District: Braga > Braga > Braga > Espinho
The sculpture “Oras Pros Nortes” is located in the Sameiro landscaped park, in the urbanization of Espinho, municipality of Braga. It is situated in the center of a lake in the João Paulo II Gardens, close to the old inn, surrounded by trees and lawns that accentuate the contrast between the metallic work and the surrounding green.
This Marian space, erected on a hill, offers broad horizons over the city of Braga and the Gerês mountain range in the distance, providing a serene and luminous setting for the piece.
Conceived by the Brazilian visual artist Walter Nu for the 1st International Biennial of Sacred Art of Braga, the work was offered to the Diocese of Braga and is intended to pay homage to the figure of Our Lady. The name “Oras Pros Nortes” evokes a prayer directed towards the path of wind and water, referring to the traditions of Marian devotion and the connection to the sea, both present in Portuguese culture.
Officially donated by the artist to Canon José Paulo Abreu, vicar-general of the diocese, the sculpture reflects the dialogue between the sacred and the modern, inviting passers-by to a contemplative pause by the water mirror.
Constructed from galvanized steel, the figure extends in angular and fragmented forms, as if assembled from reused pieces. The posture, with arms raised, suggests a gesture of welcome and elevation.
The reflection of the work in the water creates a dynamic composition that varies according to the daylight, the sun's rays, and the gentle movement of the surface, transforming each visit into a unique moment of observation.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.5389273748021,-8.368670464059619
Coordinates DMS: 41°32'20.1"N 08°22'7.2"W