O Cruceiro Portland: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

O Cruceiro is a prominent symbol of Galician heritage and an emblem of Portland’s multicultural landscape. Found both on the University of Portland campus and in Tom McCall Waterfront Park, this intricately carved granite monument is rooted in the Spanish cruceiro tradition and embodies themes of faith, migration, and community. Free to visit and fully accessible, O Cruceiro is a meaningful stop for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and cultural explorers. This detailed guide covers O Cruceiro’s history, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby Portland historical sites, ensuring you have all the information needed for a rewarding and respectful visit.

For the latest details on visiting hours, accessibility, and events, consult official resources such as the University of Portland website, Travel Portland, and Wikipedia.

Table of Contents

Historical Background of O Cruceiro

O Cruceiro—also called El Crucerios de la Universitad—is a granite monument standing on the University of Portland campus (University of Portland). Commissioned in 1984 by Dr. Manuel “Manny” Jato Macias in memory of his family, it was designed by Marvin Swartz and sculpted by Galician artist Eldimiro Fernandez Justo. Officially dedicated in 1986 and renovated in 2013, the monument stands 14 feet tall and features detailed carvings in the Galician stonework style (Wikipedia).

The Galician Cruceiro Tradition

Cruceiros are stone crosses typical of Galicia, Spain, traditionally placed at crossroads, plazas, and churchyards since the Middle Ages. They embody faith and serve as communal spiritual markers. The Portland O Cruceiro features the Crucified Christ, Virgen del Carmen, and Santiago de Compostela (St. James), directly referencing Galician religious and cultural identity (Wikipedia).


Visiting Hours and Tickets

  • University of Portland Campus:
    O Cruceiro is accessible during campus daylight hours, generally 7:00 AM–9:00 PM. No admission fee or tickets are required. Hours may vary on holidays or during university events—verify current details via the University of Portland website.

  • Tom McCall Waterfront Park:
    The monument in the park is open from 5:00 AM to midnight daily. Admission is free; no tickets needed (Travel Portland).


Locations and Accessibility

University of Portland Campus

  • Location: University Park neighborhood, near Merlo Field and the Chapel of Christ the Teacher.
  • Parking: Visitor parking available on campus; some street parking nearby.
  • Public Transit: Served by TriMet bus routes (TriMet).
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with paved paths.

Tom McCall Waterfront Park

  • Location: SW Naito Parkway & SW Pine Street, downtown Portland.
  • Public Transit: Close to MAX light rail (Oak/SW 1st Ave, Skidmore Fountain) and bus stops.
  • Parking: Metered street parking and nearby public garages.
  • Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant, with smooth pathways, accessible restrooms, and designated parking (Portland Disability Law).
  • Service Animals: Permitted per ADA guidelines.

Artistic Features and Symbolism

O Cruceiro’s granite column is adorned with intricate carvings, culminating in a cross with figures of the Crucified Christ, Virgen del Carmen, and Santiago de Compostela (Wikipedia). The use of granite represents durability and a direct link to Galician tradition. The monument’s weathered appearance is testament to its authenticity, while restoration efforts ensure its preservation for future generations.


Cultural Significance in Portland

O Cruceiro’s installation underscores Portland’s cultural diversity and immigrant history. The monument acts as a bridge between Galician and Portland identities, serving as a gathering place for reflection, meditation, and celebration. Its dedication—inscribed on the base—honors the Macias family and, by extension, the journeys of many immigrant families (Wikipedia). The monument enriches Portland’s tradition of honoring sites important to various communities (Portland.gov).


O Cruceiro as a Site of Memory

The personal dedication on O Cruceiro transforms it from a work of art to a living site of memory. It stands as a tribute to migration, heritage, and the preservation of cultural identity. The inscription encourages meditation and prayer, echoing the monument’s spiritual roots.


Visitor Experience and Practical Tips

  • Best Times to Visit:
    Spring and summer offer the best weather; early mornings and late afternoons provide ideal lighting for photography.
  • Photography:
    Encouraged—be respectful; do not climb or touch the monument.
  • Quiet Reflection:
    The site is suitable for peaceful contemplation.
  • Nearby Amenities:
    Food carts, restrooms, and benches are available in Tom McCall Waterfront Park; the University campus has maps and visitor facilities.
  • What to Bring:
    Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera.

Nearby Attractions and Portland Historical Sites

  • Old Port District: Boutiques, dining, and lively waterfront (The Tourist Checklist).
  • Portland Museum of Art: Collections spanning American and European art (There She Goes Again).
  • Portland Observatory: Historic maritime signal tower (Nomadasaurus).
  • Portland Breakwater Lighthouse (Bug Light): Iconic lighthouse and scenic park (Packed for Life).
  • Peaks Island & Casco Bay Ferries: Island escapes and harbor views.
  • Farmers’ Market & Food Scene: Local produce, seafood, and renowned craft breweries.
  • Cape Elizabeth & Fort Williams Park: Maine’s oldest lighthouse and coastal trails.
  • Day Trips: Freeport, Ogunquit, and Chebeague Island offer shopping, beaches, and small-town charm.

Sustainable Tourism Practices

  • Environmental Stewardship:
    Portland targets carbon neutrality by 2045; many hotels are Green Lodging Certified (Visit Portland).
  • Community Support:
    Shop local and participate in community events.
  • Transportation:
    Use public transit, bike rentals, or walk to minimize your carbon footprint (Southern Maine Coast).
  • Waste Reduction:
    Use recycling and composting facilities.
  • Respect Cultural Heritage:
    Engage thoughtfully with interpretive materials and events.
  • Responsible Event Planning:
    Opt for sustainable venues and catering; promote green travel for group visits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the O Cruceiro visiting hours?
A: University campus location: 7:00 AM–9:00 PM. Tom McCall Waterfront Park: 5:00 AM–midnight.

Q: Is there a ticket or admission fee?
A: No, admission is free at both locations.

Q: Is O Cruceiro accessible for wheelchairs?
A: Yes, both sites are ADA-compliant.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Guided tours may be available during festivals or by arrangement; check with local visitor centers.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: Old Port District, Portland Observatory, Bug Light, Portland Museum of Art, and more.

Q: How can I visit responsibly?
A: Use public transport, support local businesses, minimize waste, and respect the monument and its surroundings.


Conclusion

O Cruceiro is more than a monument—it is a living testament to Portland’s multicultural heritage, faith, and community spirit. With free admission and prime locations accessible to all, it offers a meaningful experience for every visitor. Explore the surrounding historic sites, enjoy local cuisine and markets, and participate in Portland’s vibrant events to deepen your connection with this dynamic city.

For the latest information, guided tours, and event updates, visit the University of Portland website and Travel Portland.

Download the Audiala app for guided tours and updates on Portland historical sites. Follow us on social media for more insights, photos, and travel inspiration.


References and Official Sources

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Portland

5Th Avenue Cinema
5Th Avenue Cinema
|
  Acadia: A New Orleans Bistro
| Acadia: A New Orleans Bistro
Ainu And Native American Power Boards
Ainu And Native American Power Boards
Akadi
Akadi
Alberta Park
Alberta Park
Alphabet Historic District
Alphabet Historic District
Ankeny Square
Ankeny Square
Arbor Lodge Park
Arbor Lodge Park
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Bagdad Theater
Bagdad Theater
Berkeley Park
Berkeley Park
Berrydale Park
Berrydale Park
Bipartisan Cafe
Bipartisan Cafe
Bit House Saloon
Bit House Saloon
Biwa
Biwa
Blackstone Hall
Blackstone Hall
Bloomington Park
Bloomington Park
Bluehour
Bluehour
Bob White Theatre
Bob White Theatre
Brasserie Montmartre
Brasserie Montmartre
Brentwood Park
Brentwood Park
British Overseas Restaurant Corporation
British Overseas Restaurant Corporation
Broadway Bridge
Broadway Bridge
Brushstrokes
Brushstrokes
Burnside Bridge
Burnside Bridge
Bust Of York
Bust Of York
Cadillac Cafe
Cadillac Cafe
Captain William Clark Monument
Captain William Clark Monument
Caruthers Park
Caruthers Park
Cathedral Park
Cathedral Park
|
  Cheryl'S On 12Th
| Cheryl'S On 12Th
Chiles Center
Chiles Center
Chiming Fountain
Chiming Fountain
Chinatown Gateway
Chinatown Gateway
Cinemagic Theater
Cinemagic Theater
Clinton Park
Clinton Park
Coffin Club
Coffin Club
Colonel Summers Park
Colonel Summers Park
Columbia Park
Columbia Park
Coming Of The White Man
Coming Of The White Man
Commodore Hotel
Commodore Hotel
Concordia University Portland
Concordia University Portland
Congregation Neveh Shalom
Congregation Neveh Shalom
Congregation Shaarie Torah
Congregation Shaarie Torah
Consulate Of Mexico, Portland
Consulate Of Mexico, Portland
Couch Park
Couch Park
Council Crest Park
Council Crest Park
Crystal Ballroom
Crystal Ballroom
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Cully Park
Cully Park
Dan And Louis Oyster Bar
Dan And Louis Oyster Bar
Darcelle Xv Plaza
Darcelle Xv Plaza
Darcelle Xv Showplace
Darcelle Xv Showplace
Davenport
Davenport
David Campbell Memorial
David Campbell Memorial
Dawson Park
Dawson Park
Delta Cafe
Delta Cafe
Delta Park
Delta Park
Der Rheinlander
Der Rheinlander
Director Park
Director Park
Dog Bowl
Dog Bowl
Duniway Park
Duniway Park
East Portland Branch, Public Library Of Multnomah County
East Portland Branch, Public Library Of Multnomah County
Eastbank Esplanade
Eastbank Esplanade
Echo Theater
Echo Theater
Ed Benedict Park
Ed Benedict Park
Eem
Eem
Either/Or
Either/Or
|
  Elk Rock Gardens Of The Bishop'S Close
| Elk Rock Gardens Of The Bishop'S Close
Errol Heights Park
Errol Heights Park
|
  Esparza'S
| Esparza'S
Essex Park
Essex Park
Farewell To Orpheus
Farewell To Orpheus
Farragut Park
Farragut Park
Flavel Park
Flavel Park
Forest Park
Forest Park
|
  Frank'S Noodle House
| Frank'S Noodle House
Fremont Bridge
Fremont Bridge
Gabriel Park
Gabriel Park
Gammans Park
Gammans Park
George Himes Park
George Himes Park
George Park
George Park
George Washington
George Washington
Ghost Ship
Ghost Ship
Grant Park
Grant Park
Gypsy Restaurant And Velvet Lounge
Gypsy Restaurant And Velvet Lounge
Harney Park
Harney Park
Hawks Pdx
Hawks Pdx
Hawthorne Bridge
Hawthorne Bridge
Hazeltine Park
Hazeltine Park
Heathman Hotel
Heathman Hotel
Henry Thiele Restaurant
Henry Thiele Restaurant
Holladay Park
Holladay Park
Hollywood Theatre
Hollywood Theatre
Holon
Holon
Horse Brass Pub
Horse Brass Pub
Hoyt Hotel
Hoyt Hotel
|
  Huber'S Restaurant
| Huber'S Restaurant
International Harvester Company Warehouse
International Harvester Company Warehouse
International Rose Test Garden
International Rose Test Garden
Interstate Bridge
Interstate Bridge
Irving Park
Irving Park
Irving Street Kitchen
Irving Street Kitchen
Irvington
Irvington
|
  Jaciva'S Bakery And Chocolatier
| Jaciva'S Bakery And Chocolatier
|
  Jake'S Famous Crawfish
| Jake'S Famous Crawfish
Jamison Square
Jamison Square
Joan Of Arc
Joan Of Arc
Joe Etzel Field
Joe Etzel Field
Johnson Creek Park
Johnson Creek Park
Keller Fountain Park
Keller Fountain Park
Kelley Point Park
Kelley Point Park
Kelly Butte Natural Area
Kelly Butte Natural Area
Kennedy School
Kennedy School
Kenton Park
Kenton Park
Kern Park
Kern Park
|
  Kim Jong Grillin'
| Kim Jong Grillin'
King Albert Hall
King Albert Hall
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
|
  Ladd'S Addition
| Ladd'S Addition
Lair Hill Park
Lair Hill Park
Laurelhurst Park
Laurelhurst Park
Laurelwood Pub And Brewery
Laurelwood Pub And Brewery
Le Happy
Le Happy
Legacy Emanuel Medical Center
Legacy Emanuel Medical Center
Lents Park
Lents Park
Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall
Lloyd Center
Lloyd Center
Lloyd District
Lloyd District
Lone Fir Cemetery
Lone Fir Cemetery
Lovejoy Columns
Lovejoy Columns
Lovejoy Fountain Park
Lovejoy Fountain Park
Loyal B. Stearns Memorial Fountain
Loyal B. Stearns Memorial Fountain
Lutz Tavern
Lutz Tavern
Marquam Nature Park
Marquam Nature Park
Martini Glass Sign
Martini Glass Sign
Mccoy Park
Mccoy Park
Mckenna Park
Mckenna Park
Merchant Hotel
Merchant Hotel
Mill Ends Park
Mill Ends Park
Moda Center
Moda Center
Montavilla Park
Montavilla Park
Morrison Bridge
Morrison Bridge
Mt. Scott Park
Mt. Scott Park
Multnomah University
Multnomah University
National Cash Register Building
National Cash Register Building
Ned Flanders Crossing
Ned Flanders Crossing
Neuberger Hall
Neuberger Hall
Normandale Park
Normandale Park
Northwest Film Center
Northwest Film Center
Nostrana
Nostrana
Nuestra Cocina
Nuestra Cocina
O Cruceiro
O Cruceiro
Oaks Amusement Park
Oaks Amusement Park
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Ocean City Seafood Restaurant
Ocean City Seafood Restaurant
Old Town / Chinatown
Old Town / Chinatown
Old Town Pizza
Old Town Pizza
Olive Or Twist
Olive Or Twist
Oregon College Of Oriental Medicine
Oregon College Of Oriental Medicine
Oregon Health & Science University
Oregon Health & Science University
Oregon Historical Society
Oregon Historical Society
Oregon Holocaust Memorial
Oregon Holocaust Memorial
Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry
Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry
Oregon Park
Oregon Park
Oregon Zoo
Oregon Zoo
Oriental Theatre
Oriental Theatre
|
  Otto'S Sausage Kitchen
| Otto'S Sausage Kitchen
Overlook Restaurant
Overlook Restaurant
Pambiche Cocina And Repostería Cubana
Pambiche Cocina And Repostería Cubana
|
  Papi Chulo'S
| Papi Chulo'S
Paris Theatre
Paris Theatre
Parklane Park
Parklane Park
Peace Chant
Peace Chant
Peninsula Park
Peninsula Park
Peter Stott Center
Peter Stott Center
Pettygrove Park
Pettygrove Park
Pier Park
Pier Park
Pioneer Courthouse
Pioneer Courthouse
Pioneer Courthouse Square
Pioneer Courthouse Square
Pioneer Place
Pioneer Place
Pittock Mansion
Pittock Mansion
Por Que No
Por Que No
Portland Art Museum
Portland Art Museum
Portland Building
Portland Building
Portland City Grill
Portland City Grill
Portland Firefighters Park
Portland Firefighters Park
Portland Institute For Contemporary Art
Portland Institute For Contemporary Art
Portland International Airport
Portland International Airport
Portland International Raceway
Portland International Raceway
Portland Japanese Garden
Portland Japanese Garden
Portland State University
Portland State University
Portlandia
Portlandia
|
  Portland'S Centers For The Arts
| Portland'S Centers For The Arts
Powell Park
Powell Park
Produce Row Café
Produce Row Café
Providence Park
Providence Park
Rimsky-Korsakoffee House
Rimsky-Korsakoffee House
Ring Of Time
Ring Of Time
River View Cemetery
River View Cemetery
Rose City Park
Rose City Park
Ross Island Bridge
Ross Island Bridge
Sacajawea And Jean-Baptiste
Sacajawea And Jean-Baptiste
Sacajawea Park
Sacajawea Park
Salmon Street Springs
Salmon Street Springs
Screen Door
Screen Door
Sellwood Park
Sellwood Park
Sellwood Riverfront Park
Sellwood Riverfront Park
Sewallcrest Park
Sewallcrest Park
Shanghai Tunnel Bar
Shanghai Tunnel Bar
Shift Drinks
Shift Drinks
Shriners Hospital For Children
Shriners Hospital For Children
Simon Benson House
Simon Benson House
Skidmore Old Town Historic District
Skidmore Old Town Historic District
South Park Blocks
South Park Blocks
South Waterfront Greenway
South Waterfront Greenway
South Waterfront Park
South Waterfront Park
|
  Spanish–American War Soldier'S Monument
| Spanish–American War Soldier'S Monument
Spanish–American War Veterans Memorial
Spanish–American War Veterans Memorial
Spirit Of 77
Spirit Of 77
St. Helens Court
St. Helens Court
St. Johns Bridge
St. Johns Bridge
St. Johns Park
St. Johns Park
St. Johns Racquet Center
St. Johns Racquet Center
Star Theater
Star Theater
Statue Of Abraham Lincoln
Statue Of Abraham Lincoln
Statue Of Paul Bunyan
Statue Of Paul Bunyan
Stratum
Stratum
Sunnyside School Park
Sunnyside School Park
Swan Island Municipal Airport
Swan Island Municipal Airport
Tanner Springs Park
Tanner Springs Park
Tasty N Alder
Tasty N Alder
Terry Schrunk Plaza
Terry Schrunk Plaza
The Alibi
The Alibi
The Dime Store
The Dime Store
The Dream
The Dream
The Fields Park
The Fields Park
The Oregonian Printing Press Park
The Oregonian Printing Press Park
The Parish
The Parish
The Roxy
The Roxy
The Woodsman Tavern
The Woodsman Tavern
Theodore Roosevelt, Rough Rider
Theodore Roosevelt, Rough Rider
Thor
Thor
Tideman Johnson Natural Area
Tideman Johnson Natural Area
Tikitotmoniki Totems
Tikitotmoniki Totems
Tilikum Crossing, Bridge Of The People
Tilikum Crossing, Bridge Of The People
Tom Mccall Waterfront Park
Tom Mccall Waterfront Park
Toro Bravo
Toro Bravo
Town Club
Town Club
Trenton Park
Trenton Park
Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Two Plum Park
Two Plum Park
Union Station
Union Station
Union Station / Northwest 6Th & Hoyt Street
Union Station / Northwest 6Th & Hoyt Street
University Of Portland
University Of Portland
University Of Western States
University Of Western States
Unthank Park
Unthank Park
Urban Hydrology
Urban Hydrology
Urban Plaza
Urban Plaza
Uss Blueback
Uss Blueback
Vault Cocktail Lounge
Vault Cocktail Lounge
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park
Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Virginia Cafe
Virginia Cafe
Voices Of Remembrance
Voices Of Remembrance
Voodoo Doughnut
Voodoo Doughnut
Walk Of The Heroines
Walk Of The Heroines
Wallace Park
Wallace Park
Warner Pacific University
Warner Pacific University
Wellington Park
Wellington Park
Wells Fargo Center
Wells Fargo Center
Westmoreland Park
Westmoreland Park
White Stag Block
White Stag Block
Wildwood
Wildwood
Willamette National Cemetery
Willamette National Cemetery
Willamette Park
Willamette Park
Wilshire Park
Wilshire Park
Winter Rider No. 2
Winter Rider No. 2
|
  Wong'S King
| Wong'S King
Woodlawn Park
Woodlawn Park
Woodstock Park
Woodstock Park
Yale Union Laundry Building
Yale Union Laundry Building
Yankee Champion
Yankee Champion