Valença

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Also known as Valença do Minho, this municipality is bordered to the north and northwest by the Minho River, which separates it from Spain. This river marks the landscape, where vineyards and symmetrically arranged farmland stand out. Its founding is closely linked to its geographic location, having been an important military and political hub due to its proximity to the border with Galicia. Its gastronomy highlights include Gandra-style roast kid, São Teotónio-style cod, Gondomil-style lamb, and "sopa seca". At the pig slaughterhouse, you can sample "belouras", "sarrabulho", and "rojões" (pork). Among the crafts, linen works are a highlight.

What to do in Valença

Núcleo Intra-muros da Praça de Valença

Valença

Urban settlement within the fortifications of Valença. The inner-walled core, without a castle, is completely surrounded by the stepped defensive belt, largely preserving the terrace covered in low vegetation and shrubs.

Praça Forte de Valença

Valença

These fortifications date back to the 17th century and were built to withstand the struggles for independence. It was one of the most important strongholds in the country. Currently, four gates and twelve bastions remain, built at different periods. Old artillery pieces can be seen on the terraces. It was remodeled in 1640.

Centro Histórico de Valença

Valença

Within Valença's Fortress Square, you can admire its beautiful historic center, from the Old Metal Bridge to the Milestone, passing by numerous religious monuments, such as the Collegiate Church of Saint Stephen, the Church of Mercy, and the Parish Church of Saint Mary of the Angels. Valença began to gain importance during the Middle Ages, when it was a mandatory …

Porto de Recreio de Cristelo Covo

Valença

A boat docking area located on the Minho River, next to Senhora da Cabeça Park. This traditional leisure area is used by Valença residents seeking to enjoy the river's activities.

Igreja Românica do Convento de Sanfins

Valença

At 200 meters high stands the Romanesque Church of the Convent of Sanfins, with a single nave, part of the former Benedictine convent. The decoration of the capitals, doors, and crevices is noteworthy.

Casa do Eirado

Valença

Also known as Casa da Janela, this 15th-century building features a rectangular floor plan with one- or two-story facades of exposed stonework, punctuated by rectilinear openings with Manueline decoration. The left-hand facade has some cracks that, according to locals, are …

Ponte Metálica sobre o Rio Minho

Valença

A bridge connecting Portugal to Spain, with a double, flat, overlapping deck, with a maximum length of approximately 400 meters, the lower deck for road traffic, with a width of approximately 6.5 meters, and the upper deck for rail traffic. …

Igreja Matriz de Valença / Igreja de Santa Maria dos Anjos

Valença

Church located within the walls of the Valença Fortress, which combines Romanesque, 16th-century, late-Baroque, neoclassical and revivalist architecture.

Capela do Bom Jesus

Valença

Baroque chapel with Rococo elements, with a longitudinal plan, consisting of a single nave and a chancel. The project was designed by military engineer Manuel Pinto de Vilalobos.

Necrópole Medieval do Adro Velho

Valença

Necropolis located near Verdoejo, among a thick forest of pine and oak trees.

Núcleo Museológico Municipal de Valença

Valença

The former jail and "Domus Municipalis," one of the oldest and most emblematic buildings in Praça-Forte, now houses memories of the most significant moments in Valença's history. The archaeological remains, a glimpse into the medieval fortification, and the military heyday …

Torre de Silva

Valença

A tower of medieval and seventeenth-century military architecture, it is one of the oldest stately towers. Its original main entrance was through the broken arch on the second floor, with the main façade later being moved to the opposite side. …

Ecopista do Rio Minho

Valença

A several-kilometer pedestrian and bicycle trail along the former railway line between Valença and Monção. The eco-path also provides close proximity to the Minho River.

Convento Beneditino de Ganfei

Valença

A former Benedictine convent, extensively remodeled in the 18th century, featuring Romanesque elements. It consists of three substantial naves with Romanesque roots. In addition to the cloister, it preserves elements belonging to fountains, water features, and water fountains.

Igreja do Salvador de Ganfei

Valença

A three-nave church featuring Romanesque columns, arches, and capitals. It underwent significant alterations in the 18th century, with the replacement of the original Romanesque portal and apse.

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Where to eat in Valença

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Where to sleep in Valença

Quinta do Caminho
Quinta do Caminho

Este simpático alojamento local localiza-se em pleno Caminho de Santiago, sendo um autêntico refúgio no meio da natureza.

Pousada de Valença
Pousada de Valença

Charm inn

Opened in 1962, the Pousada de Valença do Minho, of São Teotónio, stands on the highest point of the historic centre of Valencia, with privileged view of Spain…

Casa da Eira de Gondomil
Casa da Eira de Gondomil

17TH century House, situated between Valencia and monsoon. Built by monks who belonged to the convent of Sanfins de "Friestas", has gone from farmhouse rural t…

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Near Valença

Vila Nova de Cerveira

Vila Nova de Cerveira

Vila Nova de Cerveira is strongly influenced by the Minho River, which delimits the entire municipality and provides magnificent views to those who p…

Melgaço

Melgaço

Located in Alto Minho, Melgaço is a mountainous municipality located between the left bank of the Minho river and the Peneda and Soajo mountains. As …

Paredes de Coura

Paredes de Coura

Paredes de Coura, right in the heart of Minho, is a mountainous municipality, with its highest point being Corno do Bico, at 883 meters above sea lev…

Monção

Monção

Monção is bounded by the fertile Minho River and the rugged Peneda mountains. Its privileged location meant that its valleys were sought after for ag…