Praça Guilherme Gomes Fernandes (Guilherme Gomes Fernandes Square), Porto

Guilherme Gomes Fernandes Square, located in the parish of Vitória in Porto, has a rich history intertwined with the city's past. Originally known as Santa Teresa Square, it adopted its current name in 1915 to honor Guilherme Gomes Fernandes, the commander of the Porto Volunteer Fire Department. His leadership during the catastrophic 1888 fire that destroyed the Baquet Theater, claiming 120 lives, earned him lasting recognition.

The most notable feature of the square is the Monument to Guilherme Gomes Fernandes. Its creation was spearheaded by a committee of friends and admirers, led by José de Brito, with support from fire brigades across Portugal and the Porto City Council. The bust, crafted by Porto artist Bento Cândido da Silva, was inaugurated on May 1, 1915. Cândido da Silva also sculpted the famous statues at the Bolhão Market.

Other highlights of the square include Padaria Ribeiro, a bakery with roots in the late 19th century when bread sellers operated there. Leitaria da Quinta do Paço, a historic dairy and tea room, is beloved for its éclairs filled with whipped cream. Finally, there is the Way of Reading, a second-hand bookstore owned by publisher Cruz Santos, adding a literary touch to this storied location.