Nestled within the foothills of the Peneda-Geres mountains and national park, this town oozes charm. Blessed with vistas, narrow winding streets, medieval towers, old castles and an array of churches. The town, whose name literally means "Arches of the Vez", was an important crossing point for the Romans who built bridges here, some of which you can still cross. The towns strategic location has led it to be a focal point to many a battle. None more important than the battle of 1141 during Portugal's campaign for independence from the Kingdom of Leon. The victory is commemorated by a curious statue found in front of the Espírito Santo church in the upper town.

A devastating fire in the 1700s saw many of Arcos de Valdevez's most treasured buildings destroyed or restored, including the towns 14th-century parish church. In the old town, there can be found examples of baroque facades. A fine example is found on the church of Nossa Senhora da Lapa.

The Bridge

The current bridge that straddles the river Vez was built in the 19th Century, replacing the medieval bridge. Construction started in 1876 and took four years to complete. It was built from stone blocks with four arches. The style is sympathetic to other older bridges close by and complementary to the surrounding area, a true feast for the eyes and a gift for your camera.

The Pillory (Pelourinho)

Attributed to the mason João Lopes the elder in the Manueline style, this relic of public corporal punishment dates from the early sixteenth century. It was a symbol of the towns authoritative importance and key geological location. The pillory was raised in the centre of the Municipal Square in front of the old Town Hall. It was taken to the place of Valletta, along the river Vez in around 1700. There it remained until 1895 when it was relocated once more to the square opposite the Church of Arcos de Valdevez where it remains today. Displaying heraldic and other symbols of regal authority, the Pelourinho de Arcos de Valdevez became a national monument in 1964.

Capela da Nossa Senhora da Conceição (Chapel of Our Lady of the Conception)

Also known as the Square Chapel, the Capela da Nossa Senhora da Conceição was constructed in the late fifteenth century by João Domingues, the Abbot of Sabadim. It's located in the village centre to house his tomb. Stark Gothic in style with walls of granite. The purpose of the building as a resting place for the late abbot has been extended to include other local dignitaries.

In the seventeenth century, it gained its current name. Its status has declined somewhat. Over the years, it has been a cowshed, a fire station, a warehouse. During the 1960's it was nothing more than a wreck when it was classified as a cultural heritage building by the Portuguese State. It finally re-opened in 1980 after a period of loving restoration and returned to being a place of worship and public enjoyment.

About a mile north of town on the left bank sits O Paço de Giela (The Palace of Giela). It is considered an excellent example of a "tower-house" with commanding views overlooking the Vez valley. The tower was probably built in the mid-fourteenth century, replacing a smaller and much older one. It was classified as a National Monument in 1910 and is surrounded by almost 18 hectares of urban parkland. Blending Manueline elements, as found in the windows and the original door, with other later styles. It has experienced many renovations during its lifetime. It remains one of the few remaining examples of Portuguese noble residences from the late Middle Ages.

Tuesday - Sunday: 10h00 - 13h00/14h00 - 18h00, Mondays: CLOSED
Adult: €1.00, Consessionary: FREE
Giela, 4970-765 Arcos de Valdevez, Portugal
41º 51' 00.1" N | 8º 24' 28.1" W | +351 258 520 529
pacodegiela@cmav.pt |  Website

Eighteen miles (29km) east of Arcos de Valdevez in the Penda Gerês national park, the hamlet of Lindoso comprises 1300 souls, mainly of farming backgrounds. It is most famous for its castle and espigueiros, the infamous Minho granite structures to house grain. Perched on a small rocky outcrop overlooking the village Lindoso's castle has played a key role in defending Portugal since the 13th century. It's done battle and changed hands with its old adversary Castile and later Spain during the restoration wars.

It is built on an irregular quadrilateral foundation. It has rounded corners to avoid blind angles and offers resistance to assailants. The gate facing the village is flanked by quadrangular towers.

The 18th-century espigueiros run alongside the castle and are intricately carved from granite and topped with a cross. Along with Soajo, Lindoso has the best collection of espigueiros in Portugal, in terms of number and finery. For added divine protection of the grain, a granite cross with a tall shaft mounted on a square plinth standing guard among the stone granaries. The whole site combined is a national monument.