Reception and Supply Piers

Category: Civil Architecture > Quay

District: Porto > Vila Nova de Gaia > Vila Nova de Gaia > Afurada

Location

Situated in the picturesque locality of Afurada, in Vila Nova de Gaia, this quay is strategically positioned on the banks of the Douro River. Its location offers a unique perspective on the riverside activity and provides a visual backdrop with the hills and the city of Porto on the opposite bank, highlighting the characteristic environment of this area. It is a place where local life, connected to the river, unfolds authentically, immersed in the traditional atmosphere of a fishing community.

Function and Activity

As its name suggests, the Reception and Supply Quay plays a crucial role in the logistics and dynamics of the Afurada community. This is the point where vessels of various sizes, but especially those linked to fishing and river transport, dock to unload their catches or other goods, as well as to receive provisions or refuel with fuel and other essential items for their daily activities. It represents a vital hub in the daily lives of those who live and work on the river.

Structure and Resilience

The quay's structure reflects its eminently practical purpose. Designed for durability and functionality, it features robust construction, typically in concrete or stone, materials that provide the necessary resistance to withstand constant loading and unloading operations, as well as tidal variations and vessel movement. Its design is unpretentious, focused on efficiency, and integrates into the riverside landscape without ostentation, serving its purpose with solidity and pragmatism.

The Heart of the Riverside Community

More than just a support structure, the Reception and Supply Quay is a true stage for the fishing and riverside life of Afurada. Here, one can observe the daily toil of the fishermen, the coming and going of vessels, and the genuine atmosphere of a community intrinsically linked to the Douro. The location offers an authentic insight into the local culture and traditions, where the smell of the sea and the bustle of nets tell stories of generations and a preserved way of life.

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