Leca da Palmeira, Matosinhos, Porto, Portugal 🇵🇹 2025

Описание: Leça da Palmeira is a coastal parish located in the municipality of Matosinhos, part of the Porto metropolitan area in northern Portugal. It was a separate civil parish until 2013, when it merged with Matosinhos to form the combined parish of Matosinhos e Leça da Palmeira. As of the 2011 census, Leça da Palmeira had a population of 18,502 residents and covered an area of 5.97 km². 

The area boasts a rich cultural heritage, including the Fort of Leça da Palmeira, Leça Lighthouse, and several churches such as Corpo Santo, Santana, and Boa Nova. Notably, Leça da Palmeira is home to architectural works by renowned Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, including the Piscinas de Marés (Tidal Pools) and the Boa Nova Tea House. These sites have been recognized as national monuments and are considered for UNESCO World Heritage status. 

Economically, Leça da Palmeira has been shaped by its coastal location and industrial history. It houses the Port of Leixões, one of Portugal’s largest seaports, which serves as a significant maritime gateway for the northern region. Additionally, the area was home to a large oil refinery operated by Galp Energia, which was shut down in April 2021. The site is currently being redeveloped into an “Innovation District,” focusing on future energy technologies and research, including a new campus for the University of Porto.