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VIANA DO CASTELO

A City of Thrilling Water Sports and Rich Maritime History

Viana do Castelo is the northernmost Atlantic city in Portugal and the central city in the region with the same name, where Ponte de Lima is one of the municipalities in which the village of Calvelo is located. Served by functional motorways and a seaport, it is easy and convenient to reach the city, where visitors can enjoy a remarkable quality of life. The presence of the Lima River, the mountains and the sea give the city excellent landscapes that delight the senses.

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Human occupation of the Viana region dates back to the Mesolithic period, as evidenced by numerous archaeological findings (preceding the pre-Roman citadel) on Monte de Santa Luzia. The settlement of Viana received its charter from King Afonso III of Portugal on July 18, 1258. Due to its growing prosperity, Viana became an important commercial outpost, leading to the construction of a defensive tower (Torre da Roqueta) to repel pirates from Galicia and North Africa who sought to plunder the port.

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The flourishing maritime trade with northern Europe involved the export of wine, fruit, and salt, and the import of cutlery, textiles, tapestries, and glass. Viana's commercial spirit grew so prominent that in 1852, Queen Maria II granted a royal charter to the now-defunct Commercial Association of Viana do Castelo. In the 20th century, it became one of the most important Portuguese ports for cod fishing.

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In 2023, Viana do Castelo was awarded the European City of Sport and arranged competitions in many different sports. The city is a top destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering excellent conditions for windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing, and sailing. The Atlantic coast and steady winds make the area perfect for beginners and experienced athletes. Praia do Cabedelo is a renowned spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing, having arranged competitions for the PWA World Cup. The town’s solid maritime culture and modern facilities make it a hub for sailing, while the consistent waves along the coast provide ideal conditions for surfers year-round.

 

Some of the most prominent heritage sites in Viana do Castelo include:

  • Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Agonia

  • Fountain of Praça da República

  • Carmelo de Santa Teresinha

  • Convent of São Francisco do Monte

  • Santa Luzia Elevator

  • Fort of Santiago da Barra

  • Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus — Monte de Santa Luzia

  • Eiffel Bridge

  • Municipal Library of Viana do Castelo

  • Chapel of Misericórdia of Viana do Castelo

  • West Sea Shipyards

  • Hospital Ship Gil Eannes

  • Port of Viana do Castelo

  • Viana do Castelo Cultural Center

  • Sá de Miranda Municipal Theater

  • Costume Museum of Viana do Castelo

  • Casa dos Nichos

  • Palácio Carreira

  • Castle of Portuzelo

  • Paço de Lanheses

  • Lanheses Pillory

  • Castro do Vieito Interpretative Center

  • Casa da Capela das Malheiras

  • Palácio do Campo da Penha or dos Abreus

  • Museum of Decorative Arts of Viana do Castelo

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Visit the web page of the Viana do Castelo

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