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Category: Culture and Entertainment > Artwork

District: Porto > Valongo > Ermesinde > Palmilheira

Location

Situated in the city of Ermesinde, within the municipality of Valongo, this space is integrated into a consolidated urban environment, characterized by its vitality and proximity to the city of Porto. The locality is positioned in the northwest of the municipality, benefiting from an atmosphere that combines urban dynamism with ease of access. The surrounding area, where this place is located, has a gentle topography, with elevations that allow perspectives over the surrounding urban fabric, integrating residential spaces into the city's network.

History in the Name

The name designating this place has an ancient and multifaceted origin. One interpretation suggests a direct link to the Germanic language, where the word could mean "steep path". However, a more significant historical tradition connects the name to a noble figure from the 9th century, D. Ermezenda. This lady, who made important donations in the region, is said to have lent her name to the lands that today comprise a large part of the city, formerly known as "Terras de D. Ermezenda". This narrative confers a deep symbolic value to the place, linking it directly to its foundation and evolution over time.

Urban Development

This territory, which in its early days was a small parish with rural characteristics, has progressively transformed into a thriving urban center. Its elevation to a town in 1938, and later to a city in 1990, attests to its continuous growth. This development was largely due to the strategic relevance of the railway network, which, from the mid-19th century onwards, spurred rapid settlement and dynamism. At the beginning of the 20th century, it was appreciated as a tranquil place, ideal for rest. More recently, the urban heart has undergone a notable requalification, resulting in a more spacious and welcoming environment, with the creation and improvement of various public spaces that promote social interaction and enjoyment of the city. This continuous evolution reflects the commitment to urban quality of life and the functionality of its spaces.

Natural Setting

In terms of landscape, the area is crossed by the Leça river, a natural element that is integrated into the dynamics of urban daily life. The predominantly gently sloping topography has an average altitude of about ninety meters, with some higher points that provide wide views over the city and its surroundings. Although the urban character is predominant, the presence of the river and the variation in ground levels contribute to diversity in the environment, allowing for contact with natural elements within the heart of the city.

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