Forte de Nossa Senhora das Neves

After the restoration of independence in 1640 and in view of the need to defend our coasts from Spanish and privateer attacks, a series of forts were built by the sea. The fortress of Nossa Senhora das Neves was built in Leça da Palmeira, which, together with the forts of S. João da Foz and S. Francisco Xavier (Castelo do Queijo), formed part of the defense line of the city of Porto. It is a bulwark-type fort with a four-pointed star plan, protected by sloping walls and projecting guardhouses. The beginning of its construction dates from 1651, thus replacing another older and smaller fort, located a short distance from it and whose construction had begun in 1638. Having lost its military function, in 1844 the Alfândega do Porto was installed there and, in 1899, the secretariat of the Port of Leixões. Today it is the headquarters of the captaincy of that port. It is classified as a Property of Public Interest by Decree 44075 DG 281 of December 5, 1961.

Address: Rampa Castelo 25, 4450-631 Leça da Palmeira

Contact: 22 996 5387