Situated in the fertile agricultural plains of northern Portugal's Minho region, Amarante can be dated all the way back to the 4th century BC. Many of the towns monuments bestow much historical significance, perhaps none more so than the Ponte São Gonçalo, Amarante’s imposing bridge, which was the site that enabled the town to defend itself from Napoleon’s troops in their nineteenth century invasion. The bridge was rebuilt in 1970 and is now utilised by locals residents who have set up cafes and restaurants on it that overlook the enchanting river Tâmega that runs through Amarante.
It is this river that provides the town with its romantic and serene feel, as the trees that line its banks dip into its waters and the sound of running water give the town an intangible vibrancy. This perhaps also comes from the friendly local residents who are always more than willing to offer advice about the region and its cuisine and traditions or simply stop for a chat.
Amarante, photo by Paulo Magalhães
Another attraction of this northern Portuguese town is the Serra do Marão, a mountain range that towers above the city and is quite an impressive spectacle. Not only that, the mountains offer some of the best vantage points for views of northern Portugal and they are situated a mere 12 mile drive from Amarante. There is plenty to see along the way as well, particularly for those hoping to get closer to nature, as this region has an abundance of river valleys and forests.
Back in Amarante itself, the exotic gold granite façade of the church and former monastery of São Gonçalo, built in 1540, is a site to behold. The city’s patron saint, Saint Gonçalo was born in Amarante at the end of the 12th century and is mostly revered for his many healing powers. The monastery, under which he is buried, is awash with painted columns and the church also features a splendid two-storey Renaissance cloister.
More information: visitportugal.com
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