CodFishermen's Wall

Category: Military Architecture > Walls

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Ribeira

Location

The Muro dos Bacalhoeiros (Codfish Wall) is located in the heart of Ribeira, Porto's vibrant historic district, right by the right bank of the Douro River. Its privileged position inextricably links it to the city's iconic riverside front, where buildings rise directly from the water. From this spot, one can enjoy expansive views over the Douro and the opposite bank, in a setting that reflects the essence of Porto.

A Commercial Legacy

The name "Muro dos Bacalhoeiros" immediately evokes this area's strong connection to Porto's commercial history. It harks back to a time when codfish, an essential food in Portuguese culture, was extensively traded and stored in the vicinity. For centuries, this section of Ribeira was a nerve center of port activity, witnessing the coming and going of goods and vessels. Its existence is intrinsically linked to the economic dynamism the river provided to the city, making it a fundamental point of passage and labor.

Urban and Scenic Feature

This wall, more than an isolated structure, integrates a distinct architectural ensemble that defines much of the Ribeira landscape. Characterized by colorful multi-story buildings rising from the wall's foundation, the Muro dos Bacalhoeiros contributes to Porto's unmistakable riverside silhouette. Its authentic aesthetic and the way it merges with the riverside environment make it one of the city's most photogenic and recognizable elements, inviting close observation of its integration into Ribeira's historical and vibrant setting.

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