MATOSINHOS

Today Matosinhos is a busy container port, whilst fish canning factories and an oil refinery inhabit the dock areas. Albeit the industrial areas, there still remains much Matosinhos can offer visitors. Its beaches, the Nossa Senhora das Neves Fortress, the Piscina das Marés (seawater bathing pool), the Boa-Nova Lighthouse and the old town of Leça da Palmeira. Foodies are drawn here, as Matosinhos' fishing tradition has resulted in the city having the highest concentration of fish restaurants per square metre in Europe, approximately 600 in total.

She Changes (Anémona "The Sea Anemone")

A monument to Matosinhos' fishing past is found occupying a roundabout in the lower end of the city in the guise of a 50-metre-tall sculpture. One could be forgiven thinking the structure is some kind of radio telescope. The impressive monument was designed by Janet Echelman and commemorates local fishermen. Since the She Changes sculpture (also known as The Sea Anemone or Anémona), was unveiled in 2004 it has gained international acclaim and has become the symbol of Matosinhos.
Praça da Cidade de Salvador, Matosinhos, Porto, Portugal. | 41º 10' 28.0" N | 08º 41' 17.8" W

Senhor de (Lord of) Matosinhos church

Since construction started in 1542, it has undergone frequent renovations, most notably in 1732 when it acquired its current Baroque appearance as designed by architect Nicolau Nasoni. The main portal is topped with a medallion emblazoned with a seashell motif. Above which stands the entrecoupé pediment adorned with a cross. Standing on its flanks are the two domed clock and bell towers with niches that contain statues of St Peter and St Paul.
Much of the 18th-century alterations were carried out by the Porto sculptor Luís Pereira da Costa who was responsible for the gold-leafed carvings in both the nave and the main chapel. The interior is divided into three naves. The main nave contains an ornate gold gilded coffered ceiling and at its focal point above the altar is the statue of Bom Jesus which was moved here from the now lost 16th-century monastery of Bouças. The two-metre statue plays a major role during the Senhor de Matosinhos festival when it's paraded through the streets.
Rua Silva Cunha 107, 4450-222, Matosinhos, Portugal. | 41º 11' 14.1" N | 08º 41' 03.3" W

Mercado Municipal de Matosinhos

Built between 1936 and 1946, this impressive domed custom-built building has been home to the Matosinhos municipal market since its conception. Brightly illuminated and on two floors, with the fishmongers on the ground floor (for ventilation purposes). On the upper level of the market, you'll find greengrocers, butchers, bakeries, speciality items, and some eateries. Easily accessed via the metro station opposite which bears its name "Mercado" and is located next to Leixões Port. The building underwent renovation in 2013 and has been listed as a building of public interest.
Monday: 07h00 - 14h00, Tuesday - Friday: 06h30 - 18h00, Saturday: 06h30 - 13h00.
Mercado Municipal de Matosinhos, Rua França Junior Ed. Mercado 4450, Matosinhos, Portugal.
41° 11' 14.9" N | 08° 41' 36.2" W

The Boa Nova Lighthouse, also known as the Farol de Leça is located in Leca da Palmeira between the mouths of the rivers Douro and Leça. Standing at 45 metres, it's Portugal's second tallest and the first electrified lighthouse in the North. Construction began in 1926 it started operation the following year. The Farol da Boa Nova Lighthouse replaced an earlier nearby lighthouse which went on to serve as a dormitory for students of the School of lighthouse keepers and later demolished. It was electrified in 1950 before being linked up to the national grid in 1964. 2003 it underwent renovation and now contains a small museum. It's possible to go inside and climb the 213 steps to the top and admire the incredible views. To save your knees, you can take the lift. The experience is free of charge. If the entrance is closed, simply ring the doorbell.

Close to the Lighthouse there is the Siza Vieira designed Boa-Nova Tea House, the Boa Nova Chapel and a statue of the poet António Nobre by Barata Feyo.
Avenida da Liberdade 4450, Leça da Palmeira, Portugal. | 41° 12' 04.9" N | 08° 42' 43.5" W