Then

    The name "Vila do Conde" is prior to the foundation of Portugal. 

    It appears in a document dated from 953 as "Villa de Comite".

    The town developed from a place called "Castro de São João Baptista", where, in the 14th century (1318), D. Afonso Sanches and D. Teresa Martins founded the Monastery of Santa Clara, Vila do Conde's ex Libris nowadays.

    The city reached its apogee during the 16th century through naval construction (a tradition in Vila do Conde even today), and maritime trade. The Royal Customs building, located near the river (it has been requalified and now serves as a Museum) is a testimony of that time.

    In 1516, the king, D. Manuel I, gave Vila do Conde its charter.

Now

The city and its surroundings

    Located in the Northern Region of Portugal, Vila do Conde is kissed by the Atlantic Ocean and is the river mouth of Rio Ave.

The county of Vila do Conde is composed of 22 parishes and 7 parish unions.

Best sites to visit

    1. Mother Church of Vila do Conde (Igreja Matriz de Vila do Conde)

    The construction has begun in the 15th century and we can see some elements of the "Arte Manuelina" (the name given to describe the maritime elements present in the building): armillary sphere, ropes, shells, corals.

    It is also a fine representation of gothic and renaissance art.

2. The Monastery of Santa Clara

    Built during the 14th centre, it's the ex-libris of Vila do Conde and the first thing you see when you travel by metro and you are arriving in the city.

    Many legends are attached to this place, but it is also known by the recipes, sweet recipes, that are a tradition in Vila do Conde.

Tombs of the founders: D. Afonso Sanches and D. Teresa Martins.

3. The Aqueduct

    Erected in the 18th century, it was vital to transport water from Vila do Conde to Terroso (Póvoa de Varzim).

    Since 1910, it is considered a National Monument.

4. House of José Régio

    José Régio is the most important poet born in Vila do Conde.

    His work and legacy are nationally known and studied at schools throughout the country.

    When we visit his house, we can see some of the "treasures" that he has collected during his life as a teacher and as a poet.

    He loved Vila do Conde and has celebrated the city in several poems.

Romance de Vila do Conde

“Vila do Conde espraiada

Entre pinhais rio e mar…

Lembra-me Vila do Conde

Já me ponho a suspirar.

Vento norte, ai vento norte,

Ventinho da beira-mar

Vento de Vila do Conde,

Que é a minha terra natal!

Nenhum remédio me vale

Se me não vens cá buscar

Vento norte, ai vento norte,

Que em sonhos sinto a soprar.

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