Monument to the People of Porto

Category: Civil Architecture > Monument

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Lordelo do Ouro e Massarelos

Location

The Monument to the Tripeiros is located in the António Calém Garden, in the Lordelo do Ouro e Massarelos area, in the city of Porto. This garden offers a quieter, more residential environment, away from the hustle and bustle of the historic city centre. Its elevated position in the city provides a sense of spaciousness and an inviting space for a break during a discovery tour of Porto, framed by a serene urban setting.

The Tribute to the People

This monument, also known as "À Grei" or "Pela Grei", is a significant tribute to the resilience and spirit of sacrifice of the inhabitants of Porto. Its creation in 1960, in the context of the celebrations of the fifth centenary of the death of Infante D. Henrique, marked the recognition of the fundamental contribution of the people of Porto to the Portuguese Discoveries. The designation "tripeiros" refers to the legend that, in preparing the fleet of 1436 that departed for Ceuta, the inhabitants of Porto would have given the best quality meat to the ships, keeping only the tripe for their own consumption, giving rise to one of the most emblematic nicknames of the city and its citizens.

The Work and Its Expression

Sculpted by Lagoa Henriques, a prominent name in Portuguese art, the Monument to the Tripeiros is a piece of public art that evokes the city's history and identity. Its composition includes stonework elements and metallic letters, arranged to form a message of gratitude to the population. Also noteworthy is the representation of a map illustrating the great Portuguese navigations and maritime discoveries, reinforcing the historical context to which the monument is dedicated. The integration of the sculpture into the António Calém Garden was conceived by architects Luís Cunha and Vasco Mendes, creating a harmonious space that invites observation and reflection.

Symbol of Porto's Identity

The Monument to the Tripeiros is more than a sculpture; it is an enduring symbol of Porto's identity and its people. It represents the generosity and vision that propelled the Age of Discoveries, and keeps alive the memory of an essential contribution to Portugal's history. Its presence in public space serves as a constant reminder of the deep connection between the city and the sea, and of the unwavering spirit of its inhabitants. It is a point of interest that allows for a connection with the city's glorious past and with the essence of what it means to be a "tripeiro".

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