Walls of D. Fernando/Fernandina Wall

The Walls of D. Fernando are a medieval defensive fortification that once surrounded Porto's historic center, built as a protective barrier around the growing city. Stone sections with quadrangular towers remain visible today, particularly between the Convent of Santa Clara and the Luis I Bridge.

King Fernando I initiated construction of this protective structure in the late 14th century as the city grew rapidly. Its completion marked an important moment in Porto's development as a fortified urban center.

The remaining wall sections show how medieval Porto protected its residents and defined the city's boundaries. Today visitors can see how people used this structure to organize and defend their community.

The best way to explore the walls is to walk along their visible sections scattered throughout the old city in different areas. It helps to plan ahead to locate the individual fragments and understand how they relate to each other spatially.

The Carvão Gate is the last surviving main entrance of the original structure and stands close to the river. Its position reveals the historical importance of water access for the city's functions and trade.

Location: Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, São Nicolau e Vitória

Part of: City walls of Porto

Address: Largo do Actor Dias, Rua Arnaldo Gama, Escadas dos Guindais, Escadas do Caminho Novo, Rua Francisco da Rocha Soares, Rua da Madeira, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria

Website: https://visitporto.travel/pt-PT/poi/5cd04b4df979e000019f80d6#

GPS coordinates: 41.14259,-8.61136

Latest update: December 22, 2025 11:20