Porto has a second population above eye level. Gods, lions, sea creatures and allegorical figures inhabit cornices and pediments. Among the most fitting for a mercantile city is Hermes—the Greek messenger, known to the Romans as Mercury.
He is the patron of travellers, messengers and trade. In architectural sculpture he may appear as a youthful figure wearing a winged helmet or carrying a caduceus, the staff entwined by two snakes. Sometimes only the attributes remain.
Mercury’s popularity belongs in the context of a city whose prosperity was tied to the river, Atlantic routes, wine commerce and international merchant communities. The University of Porto’s journalism project has linked the strong presence of Mercury imagery to this commercial world, including the historic British presence.
Iconography requires caution. A winged figure is not automatically Mercury, and a pair of snakes does not prove a secret society. Compare attributes, date the building and look for trade-related companions such as ships, anchors, cornucopias or Industry.
Before you go
Begin around Aliados and the historic commercial streets; photograph the whole façade as well as the detail.
THE V ESSENCE QUESTThe messenger never waits at street level. Look up.
Verified Mercury figure; winged helmet; caduceus; full façade.
Use original V Essence photography or images supplied with explicit editorial permission.