S T E E P E D I N R I C H H I S T O R Y, L U S H A N D D I V E R S E N AT U R E , S T U N N I N G V I E W S , A N C I E N T C E LT I C S E T T L E M E N T S , M E D I E VA L M O N U M E N T S A N D A W A R D WINNING CONTEMPOR ARY BUILDINGS, VIANA DO C A S T E L O I S A V I S UA L L OV E S O N G YO U W I L L WA N T T O S W AY I N F O R AT L E A S T A C O U P L E O F D AY S
Wo rd s: C H R I S T I N A M O R E N O
ALGARVE P L U S
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Discovering
Viana do Castelo
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VEN IF you’ve never set foot in Viana, you’ve likely encountered one of her classic postcard-portraits somewhere – the ones prominently featuring the Santa Luzia Sanctuary against the stunning panorama backdrop. Just a 30-minute drive from Porto, Braga, and Spain, this northern portcity where ‘bacalhau’ first landed has been a cherished stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route since medieval times. Viana’s rich and prosperous history is rooted in its significant role during the 15th and 16th centuries as one of Portugal’s primary departure ports for grand expeditions. The coastal village thrived as an international port, facilitating trade in salt,
fruits, and wine with northern Europe, all in exchange for the coveted bacalhau. And in 1848, in recognition of its strategic importance, Queen Maria II granted Viana the esteemed status of a city.
Viana’s love language Viana do Castelo proudly showcases its identity through its lovely logo, a red filigree heart. The city’s love language is evident everywhere. The official website unveils its flirty motto: ‘Those who like it, arrive; those who love it, stay.’ Inspired by the rich history and the surrounding natural beauty, the city openly professes both its love for tradition and its passion for the contemporary. As you wander Viana’s charming streets, you’ll encounter signs that encourage you to ‘feel the history and embrace the tradition.’
