Nossa Senhora das Neves Fort

Built immediately following the Restoration of Independence, in 1640, for the purpose of protecting the maritime coastline from the Spanish and pirates, the Nossa Senhora das Neves Fort is one of Leça da Palmeira’s most iconic constructions.

This fort, along with the S. João da Foz and S. Francisco Xavier forts, was part of the city of Porto’s line of defence. In the mid-19th century, it ceased its military function and today houses the Port of Leixões captaincy. But this in no way diminished its prestige, quite the contrary.

In 1961, the fort was classified as a Property of Public Interest, much because of its fortified four-pointed star-shaped structure, protected by sloping ramparts and protruding sentry boxes.

Although it cannot be visited, every year, in the month of July and during the Os Piratas (The Pirates) festival, the fort opens its doors to the community and, in the vicinity, there are treasures hunts, masked balls, juggling and fire performances, pirate trials, sword fighting and many other activities, always accompanied by food and dessert stalls allusive to the era.

Rampa do Castelo, 25