Join the Porto Resistance and have fun!

Porto Resistance Agents welcome you to our 2nd Anomaly, happening on March 16th, 2024. Known as the ‘Cidade Invicta’ (Undefeated City), Porto gave its name to Portugal from a very early age (c. 200 bC), when it was called Portus Cale, later becoming the capital of the Portucalense County, from which Portugal was formed. Located in the north of Portugal, on the right bank of the Douro River, Porto is the country’s second largest city, known worldwide for its wine, its bridges and contemporary and ancient architecture, its historic city centre – classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO – and for the quality of its restaurants and cuisine. We’re calling upon Resistance agents from near and far to join us in this epic battle for victory at Porto!

It’s time to embark on the adventure of defeating the Enlightened once more, like we did during Abbadon!

Join us for a weekend of intense competition, camaraderie, and the chance to explore the unique beauty of Porto. Together, we’ll make history again and show the world that the Resistance spirit burns brightly in this enchanting city. See you at the Porto Anomaly – let’s make it a legendary event!

What if the mysteries of Porto’s rich history and culture are actually a reflection of the Shapers’ influence on our world, waiting to be uncovered at the Porto Anomaly

What if the mysteries of Porto’s rich history and culture are actually a reflection of the Shapers’ influence on our world, waiting to be uncovered at the Porto Anomaly

In ancient times, the rhythm of humanity was in harmony with nature’s cadence. The onset of the human year coincided with yet another cycle of nature. The year for humans commenced with the arrival of spring and concluded with the departure of winter. Throughout the ages, the middle of March bore witness to numerous battles between Good and Evil, each vying for dominance in the world as a new year unfolded. Since time immemorial, even before the discovery of the Shapers by humanity, their influence had already permeated and sparked intense battles. These conflicts raged between those who resisted the Shapers’ sway and those who succumbed to it.

The first recorded battle took place in Porto was in March 1809 when French forces invaded Portugal from the north, aiming to reach Lisbon and overthrow its power. Against overwhelming odds and at great cost, the Resistance agents in Porto thwarted the advance of the Enlightened leaders commanding the French invaders. This date is etched in the minds of all Porto’s Resistence Agents – March 29, 1809 – the day of the disaster at the Barcas Bridge.

Many others follow on Porto and on the same time of the year for years and years.
Given these events, coupled with a recent surge in Enlightened presence and activity in the city, and the dramatic rise in XM levels, we speculate that a significant battle will transpire in Porto on March 16, 2024.

We cannot afford to fail. The Resistance relies on us! Humanity depends on us!


Why Porto?

Affordability: Porto offers all types of the acommodation, dining and cultural activities. You can find lots of Hotels, Inns, Apartments, Guesthouses and Hostels that cater to a range of budgets. In such a cosmopolitan and exciting city, it is hard to pick the right accommodation or choose a program to do. More information: Visitar-porto and booking.

Currency Exchange Advantage: The currency in Portugal, as in several European Union countries, is the euro (€). There are ATM (with the sign ATM or MB) all over the the city, as well as at the airport. If you don’t have Euros with you, you can withdraw money directly from the ATM or exchange notes at an exchange office at the airport, downtown or at a local bank.

Mobile Phones: Portugal’s has excelent mobile coverage and our main mobile phone providers are NOS, MEO and Vodafone. If you come from an EU country, just enable roaming on your mobile and you shouldn’t have any problems in Porto. You can also buy a prepaid SIM card from a local provider, which will give you a local number.

Diverse Dining Options: It’s no secret that Portuguese people love to eat, our gastronomy is very rich and tasty! Porto is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine, which includes traditional Porto dishes – as Francesinha, Cachorrinhos, Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá, Tripas à moda do Porto, Caldo verde and Bifanas, these are some of the popular dishes you can taste in Porto. There are some typical restaurants where you can enjoy some of this and other good dishes: Taberna de Santo António, Adega de São Nicolau, O Ernesto, A Capoeira, O Rápido, O Buraco, Senhor Zé, Taberna dos Mercadores, Cantinho do Avilez, Cervejaria Brasão, Conga, Cervejaria Gazela, República dos Cachorros, Lado B Café, Café Santiago. Porto also has some craft brewers to try and taste with some snacks, such as cheese, ham and chorizo.

Free and Low-Cost Attractions: Many of Porto attractions are either free or have low entrance fees. You can visit historical sites like the Torre do Clérigos, the Livraria Lello, the São Bento Station, the Sé Catedral, the Palácio da Bolsa, the Centro Português de Fotografia or explore the vibrant Porto wine cellars without spending much. Walk through the city gardens is also a cost-free and enjoyable activity.

How do I get from the Airport to Porto?

Welcome to Porto!

Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport is an internacional airport near Porto. It is located 11 km of the city center. Its location is split between the municipalities of Maia, Matosinhos and Vila do Conde.

Transportation from the Airport:

Metro:

The quickest and most efficient way to reach Porto’s city centre from the airport is by metro, via the Line E (Aeroporto-Trindade) and it takes about 30 minutes. This line operates daily from 6 AM to 1AM. You can buy the ticket for this journey at any of the automatic ticket machines in the Metro station. It’s called Andante card and it costs 60 cents. You have to top it up it the machines with an occasional ticket (Z4). It costs 2 euros, it’s valid for 1h15 and you can top it up as many times as you need. Don’t forget, one person, one card!

Bus Services:

To get to the city centre by bus (STCP bus), you can take either line 601, 602 or 3M (12:30am-5:30am). In this case, you can buy a single trip ticket on the bus, costing 2€.

Taxis/Uber:

Taxis are available outside the airport which costs 20-25 euros to city center. It is standard and important to ensure that the taxi meter is turned on before starting the journey. The taxi meter calculates the fare based on the distance traveled and the time elapsed during the trip. This helps ensure transparency and fairness in the price charged for the service.

Services like Uber and Bolt are also available. Please check rates within the apps.

Car Rentals:

Various car rental agencies operate at the airport.

We’re happy to have you with us!

Where should I stay in Porto?

Porto is a tourist and business city, very popular for events and leisure, so you’ll find a wide range of accommodation, suitable for all budgets, on booking and other sites like trivago.

How do I get around in Porto?

The city of Porto, with an area of 42 km2, is the second largest city in Portugal. It is located in the north of the country, on the North-western part of the Iberian Peninsula and lies to the right hand side of the river Douro in close proximity to its mouth.

Covered by an ever progressing, accomplished transport network, getting to Porto could never be easier whether it be by plane, bus, car, boat, train or metro. Travelling within the city is made simple should you go by public transport, your own car or a rental.

Car

​Porto has a privileged geographic location, complemented by a modern communications network. It’s easy for anyone coming from Galicia, the Algarve, Lisbon, Coimbra or from any other point in the country to arrive comfortably to the city and equally as easy to travel to any of these destinations.

Throughout Porto there are various public and private car parks at your disposal.

Besides national roads (EN, IC, IP), free, the city has access to various highways, subject to toll: A1 from Lisbon, linking to the Algarve; A3 Valença (Minho), linking to Galicia; A4 Amarante (Trás-os-Montes), linking to Bragança; A28 Porto-Cerveira and A29 Porto-Aveiro/Cantanhede. Some of these highways are to be paid at the end of the trip with the ticket that must be collected at the beginning of the highway. The ways showing the sign “Via Verde” are for monthly-pass holders only.

Other highways or parts of highway have only electronic tolls. It means that there are no cabins and the passing of vehicles is detected by devices placed at the beginning of those highways.The highways are identified at the beginning with: “Electronic toll only”.

What to do in Porto?
  1. Explore Historical Sites:
  2. Visit Cultural and Artistic Venues:
    • Casa da Música, an architectural masterpiece by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, is a world-renowned concert hall known for its innovative design and exceptional acoustics. It hosts a wide variety of performances, including classical music, jazz, and contemporary music.
    • Teatro Nacional São João is the national theater of Portugal, renowned for its groundbreaking productions and commitment to contemporary theater. It offers a diverse repertoire of plays, from classics to modern works, and hosts international theater festivals.
    • Museu Serralves is a modern and contemporary art museum housed in a beautiful park estate. It boasts an extensive collection of Portuguese and international art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs.
  3. Enjoy the Seaside and Nature:
    • Ribeira (the Douro riverside) is full of vibrant cafés and restaurants, catering to tourist passing through this slice of old Porto. The rabelos (wooden sailing vessels) are moored along the riverside and there are splendid views across the Douro River to Vila Nova de Gaia.
    • There are a few gardens and parks in the city perfect for walk, exercise or relaxing.
  4. Shopping and Local Markets:
    • Mercado do Bolhão: The Bolhão Market is a jewel of Porto. One of the city’s most iconic buildings, it’s municipal heritage and a monument of public interest and preserves the memories and stories of the great fresh produce market, which beats in the heart of the city, of the people of Porto, and of those who visit it. In this market you can find merchants, stores and Restaurants.
    • There are lots os shopping and dining options in the city.
  5. Indulge in Local Cuisine:
    • Francesinha: This iconic Porto sandwich is a hearty and flavorful combination of toasted bread filled with layers of meat (beef, pork, sausage), melted cheese, and a rich tomato and beer sauce. It’s a true Porto institution and a must-try for any visitor. The best way to taste a francesinha is with a cold beer, ask for a “fino” and enjoy it.
    • Tripas à Moda do Porto: This traditional tripe stew is a local favourite, showcasing the city’s love for hearty and flavorful dishes. The tripe is slowly cooked in a broth with vegetables, smoked meats, and a variety of spices, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal.
    • Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá: This codfish casserole is a staple of Portuguese cuisine, and Porto offers its own unique interpretation. The codfish is flaked and layered with potatoes, onions, cream, and spices, creating a comforting and flavorful dish.
    • Alheira: This smoked sausage is a specialty of northern Portugal, and Porto is a great place to try it. Made with a mixture of meats, bread, and spices, alheira is traditionally served grilled or fried, often accompanied with rice or potatoes.
    • Cachorrinho: This Porto-style hot dog is a popular street food snack, featuring a savoury sausage served in a soft roll with a generous topping of tomato sauce, mustard, and mayonnaise. It’s a quick and satisfying bite that’s perfect for a casual meal.
    • Bolinhos de Bacalhau: These codfish fritters are a delicious appetisers or light meal, showcasing the versatility of codfish in Portuguese cuisine. The codfish is mixed with potatoes, onions, and herbs, then fried until golden and crispy.
    • Bifanas: The Legendary Pork Sandwich, it’s a simple but addictive dish. Pork, cooked all day in a mysterious spicy sauce and stuffed into a piece of bread that looks a bit like a roll– at first glance, it does not seem to impress. But Porto continues to hide the best and tastiest of its secrets in the simplest things in life.
    • And of course, no culinary exploration of Porto is complete without pairing these delectable dishes with the region’s renowned wines, particularly the iconic Vinho do Porto, a fortified wine with a rich history and a diverse range of styles.
  6. Relax in Parks and Gardens:
    • The Jardim da Cordoaria is a small, historic urban park with a serene vibe. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.
    • The Parque de São Roque is a public park with a playground, gardens, and grassy areas, along with a popular hedge maze. It’s a great place for families with young children.
    • The Parque do Covelo is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It is a peaceful and tranquil setting, perfect for a quiet walk or a picnic with friends and family. The park is also a great place for children to play, with several playgrounds and a bike path.
    • The Crystal Palace Gardens, or Jardins do Palácio de Cristal in Portuguese, is a beautiful park located in the heart of Porto. It offers stunning views of the Douro River and the city skyline, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
    • The Jardim da Arca d’ Água is one of the most pleasant gardens in the city and one of the top preferences of children, with its leafy trees, a lake with animals and lots of green spaces. Surrounded by a romantic garden, Praça do Marquês is a very central place with a long history.
    • The Jardim do Marquês dates back to the beginning of the 19th century.
  7. Day Trips and Excursions
    • Douro Valley Wine Tour:
      • Explore the picturesque Douro Valley, famous for its vineyards and wine production.
      • Visit local wineries, enjoy wine tastings, and take a scenic boat cruise along the Douro River.
    • Porto City Tour:
      • Discover the historic city center of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
      • Visit iconic landmarks such as the Clerigos Tower, Livraria Lello (a stunning bookstore), and the Ribeira District.
    • Rabelo Boat Cruise:
      • Take a traditional Rabelo boat cruise along the Douro River.
      • Enjoy panoramic views of Porto’s skyline and the Dom Luis I Bridge.
    • Port Cellar Tours in Vila Nova de Gaia:
      • Cross the Dom Luis I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and explore the famous port wine cellars.
      • Take guided tours to learn about the port wine production process and enjoy tastings.
    • Foz do Douro and Matosinhos Beach:
      • Head to Foz do Douro, the coastal area of Porto, and relax on the beaches.
      • Explore the seafront promenade and enjoy fresh seafood in Matosinhos.
Anything to be aware of in Porto?

Language Barrier:

  • Not everyone in Porto speaks English. You should do fine in the downtown area, where usually everyone speaks some English, including shopkeepers.

Safety:

  • Porto is a very safe place, you usually dont have problems with safety. However, please aware of your surroundings and belongings. Tourists attract pickpockets, especially in the most crowded areas downtown.

Currency and Payments:

  • For European people this will be easy since we have Euro. While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s useful to carry some cash for smaller transactions.

Healthcare:

  • We have a free national health system, where everyone is attended to regardless of age, race or nationality. If you find yourself in any emergency or need to go to the hospital, you can call 112 – it’s our National Emergency Number. If you’re traveling from within the European Union, be sure to bring your European Health Insurance Card. For further information, please check here.

What is an Ingress Anomaly?

Porto Anomaly is a FREE city-based Ingress event hosted by Niantic and passionately supported by our dedicated local organizing team. Anomalies have been taking place all around the world since 2013, and we’re thrilled to announce that Porto will be hosting one in March 2024. The main anomaly event is scheduled for Saturday, but there will likely be related activities and gatherings happening throughout the weekend.

The Porto Anomaly event will span approximately 3 hours, encompassing 3-4 hours of exhilarating walking or biking gameplay. Following the anomaly, there’s also an optional social meetup at a Resistance afterparty to celebrate a day of intense competition and camaraderie.

Whether you’re a seasoned anomaly veteran or a new agent eager to learn the ins and outs of Ingress, there’s a place for you at the Porto Anomaly!

Our dedicated Resistance organizers are working tirelessly to ensure that every agent’s needs are met. We’ve curated assignments for both fast-moving teams and those who prefer a slower, more strategic approach.

No matter your preferences, you’re a vital part of our team, and we value your participation!

The Resistance organizers are here to assist with travel and accommodation advice, party planning, merchandise, and coordinated strategies for Resistance players. Our goal is to make your Porto Anomaly weekend an unforgettable and immersive experience.

Anomalies offer a multitude of unique opportunities, including:

  1. Exploring the vibrant city of Porto through the lens of an Ingress event.
  2. Hacking numerous unique portals and adding impressive banners to your agent profile.
  3. Meeting and celebrating with hundreds of fellow Resistance teammates.
  4. Building new friendships with agents from around the world while reconnecting with old acquaintances.
  5. Engaging in a strategic virtual battle like no other.
  6. Earning or advancing your medals, including the coveted Cryptic Memories series anomaly medal.
How does it fit in with the global battle?

Apart from being a great reason and opportunity to explore new places and meet awesome people, Ingress Anomalies are competitive virtual battles between the Resistance and the Enlightened.

Why is there anomaly in Porto?

Niantic chooses anomaly locations based solely on their own decision process.

What type of gameplay challenges will there be?

Battle Beacons mixed with Shard game. More information can be found here.

What do I do on the day?

In anomalies, we play in teams. This can be you and your friends, or if you like we can assign you a team with other agents. Your timetable will depend on your team’s assignment. Playing in a coordinated group helps us to coordinate everything on the day, and is the only way we can win the anomaly.

Once you register, we will explain the whole Anomaly and everything you’ll need to do on the day in detail, don’t worry.

Do I have to register with Niantic?

No, Niantic has changed how this works until last anomaly.

The most important thing is to register with the Resistance, so that we can count on you, and help you have the greatest weekend possible.

Can I be on a team with my friends?

You can create your own team with your friends after you have signed up. Many players sign up in groups that usually attend anomalies together.

But you don’t have to worry if you’re new and you don’t know anybody yet. We’ll have social chats so agents can get to know each other and we can assign you to a team that matches your speed, language, physical capabilities and experience.

What time does the anomaly take place?

16th of March from 14h to 17h.


General FAQ

Will there be a Resistance pre-party / after-party?

Yes, of course! The opportunity to catch up with other agents of our wonderful faction, make new friends & chat with old ones, and exchange some swag – this can’t be missed!

Find all the information about Resistance-only events after signing up!

Will there be a Mission Day?

Mission Day was approved, so stay with us until Sunday to have chance to participate on it.

Will there be GORUCK?

Goruck Stealth – Friday 15th March (17h-00h)

Goruck Urban – Saturday 16th March (10h-13h)

Operation Clear Field – Sunday 17th March (10h-14h)

Will there be NL1331?

NL1331 portal will be present but not the Van itself.

Will there be lots of swag?

Absolutely! Swag shop is closed already but we will have some physical sell on RES Registration, first come first served.

Will there be a Niantic registration/afterparty and official swag?

We currently do not have any information regarding Niantic’s plans. Last anomaly in Portugal they sent Dominik.

We’ll let you know as soon as we have that information.

I have specific mobility needs? Can I still participate?

You can absolutely still participate in the event! Please let us know during registration about your mobility needs so we can help you find a team that meets your needs.


If you have specific questions reach us on Telegram or by email at portoanomaly2024@gmail.com.

Can I bring my kids?

Of course! If they they are Resistance Agents, they can sign up to participate in the anomaly with you or just tag along. Please let us know during registration so we can prepare our strategy accordingly. We don’t want to burn them down or allow them to be bored!

Please make sure to follow the Ingress Terms and Conditions.

“We will have swag, friends, good food and delicious beer and tons of fun for you in Porto! Gear up and prepare to party with us!”

Porto Orga Team