Category: Nature > Garden
District: Porto > Matosinhos > Leça da Palmeira > Brito Capelo
The Garden of Senhor do Padrão is situated in Leça da Palmeira, in the municipality of Matosinhos, in the area known as Brito Capelo. This green space is located in a coastal area, close to the seafront and the Port of Leixões. Its position makes it a natural point of passage for those circulating in the area, integrating into the urban landscape with the proximity of the Atlantic.
At the heart of this garden stands the monument that gives it its name: the Senhor do Padrão. This stone structure holds deep religious and cultural significance for the local population. Popular tradition states that the monument marks the exact spot on the beach where the revered image of the Bom Jesus de Matosinhos is said to have washed ashore, emerging from the sea waters. It is a place that refers to a narrative of faith and miracle, deeply rooted in the region's identity.
The Senhor do Padrão monument features an architectural design in carved stone, of simple lines. It is composed of four pillars supporting rectangular walls, each with a wide opening that includes the coat of arms of the first kings of Portugal and perfect round arches. At the top of the structure is a dome, covered with polychrome tiles of geometric patterns, culminating in a cylindrical column topped with a Latin cross.
Inside, a Sacred Cross is embedded in a granite base. The south-facing side of the cross is adorned with hand-painted tiles, representing the effigy of Jesus Christ. In the angular spaces formed by the walls, sculptures representing the four Evangelists are observed: Saint Matthew, Saint Mark, Saint Luke, and Saint John. At the base of the Cross, the presence of engraved numbers evokes the legend of the image's discovery and the period until one of its arms, initially missing, is said to have appeared.
Adjacent to the main monument, a smaller construction, also in worked stone, protects a fountain. Its origin, presumed to date back to 1726, is linked to a healing legend: it is said that the water from this fountain, which appeared miraculously, provided a cure for a believer suffering from a skin disease. The small dome covering this fountain features tiles believed to be from the 17th century.
On its four sides, the construction displays texts engraved in Latin. Thanks to recent studies, these inscriptions, now deciphered, invite reflection and faith. Among the engraved messages, the following stand out: "HEC VERA PISCINA EST LAVAMIMI" (This is a true pool. Wash yourselves.), "HABETO FIDEM MAIORA HIS VIDEBITIS" (Have faith. You will see greater things.), "HAVEAS AQVAS DE FONTIBVS SALVATORIS" (May you have waters from the fountains of the Savior.), and "OMNES SITIENTES VINITE ADA VAS 1726" (All you who thirst, come.). The presence of these inscriptions underlines the sacred character and the promise of relief associated with this place throughout the centuries.
The Garden of Senhor do Padrão is, in itself, a serene and welcoming space. With its grassy areas, some trees, and garden benches, it provides a place for pause and contemplation. The simplicity of its design and the presence of the historic monument and the legendary fountain contribute to an atmosphere conducive to reflection, making it a pleasant retreat for those seeking a moment of peace near the Atlantic.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.181203058333, -8.6941256125
Coordinates DMS: 41°10'52.3"N 08°41'38.9"W
On-duty Pharmacy Leça da Palmeira
