Category: Military Architecture > Fort
District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Castelo do Queijo
The Fort of São Francisco Xavier is situated on the Atlantic waterfront of the city of Porto, in the area known as Castelo do Queijo. Its position, elevated above the Atlantic Ocean and a short distance from the mouth of the Douro River, offers sweeping views of the coastline and the vastness of the sea.
This location, in the parish of Nevogilde, provides an unobstructed view that makes it a point of interest for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility along the coast of Porto.
Popularly known as Castelo do Queijo (Cheese Castle), the Fort of São Francisco Xavier owes this name to its base. It was built on a rounded granite rock, whose particular shape resembled, due to its likeness, a cheese. Local tradition also suggests that this rock was a place of worship and significance for the ancient Celtic tribe of the Draganes, who inhabited the Iberian Peninsula in remote times.
The history of the Fort of São Francisco Xavier dates back to the 17th century. It was built in 1661, at the expense of the Porto City Council, during a turbulent period marked by the Portuguese Restoration War. Its primary function was to strengthen the defense of the Portuguese coast, protecting Porto from attacks by Spanish squadrons and corsairs that threatened the coastline.
Over the centuries, the fort played an active role in various conflicts. It was occupied during the Liberal Wars, notably during the Siege of Porto, when its structure suffered significant damage due to bombardments. Its classification as a Property of Public Interest in 1934 recognized its importance in national heritage.
The fort features an irregular polygonal plan, with robust walls built of granite ashlar, which give it remarkable solidity. At its vertices, the pentagonal sentry boxes, topped by domes, stand out, contributing to its image as a classic fortress.
Access to the interior is made through a monumental arched gate, from the land side, preceded by a drawbridge. Above the portal, a shield with the arms of Portugal is visible. On the terreplein, one can still observe the firing platforms and historical cannons, which bear witness to its former defensive function, as well as the service areas that once housed the military garrison.
Currently, the Fort of São Francisco Xavier has been restored and is open to visitors, assuming a cultural and recreational vocation. Inside, it is possible to explore a historical-military museum that offers insight into its past and the military life that unfolded there.
The fort is also a stage for various cultural and entertainment initiatives, providing an environment where history and the present intersect, inviting visitors to delve into the past and enjoy its unique surroundings.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.16859560699161, -8.689914201152524
Coordinates DMS: 41°10'6.9"N 08°41'23.7"W
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