The magnificent municipality of Viana do Castelo with its seducing
landscapes is situated in Portugal, in the core of a triangle with the cities of
Vigo, Porto and Braga as the apexes, roughly remote at 65 kilometres from each
other, surrounded by the green mountains, where the sun rises, by the vivid blue
reflections of the Atlantic Ocean and by the serenity of the Lima River.
A contrasted scenery is suggested by the sea with its golden sandy beaches,
by Santa Luzia hill that draws the horizon and by the Lima River that bathes the
serene fluvial beaches, which represents, without any doubt, one of the most
beautiful landscapes, generated by nature and fortunately preserved by Humanity.
The streets and the alleys of the historical centre, which is one of the most
charming and well conserved in the country advert us thanks to the beautiful
armorial façades as well as the precise outlined and coloured tile paintings
(azulejos), forming a short architecture history within.
Enjoy walking on foot or on a bicycle, through the mountains, where the
atmosphere is healthy with aromas of a diversified flora, in order to discover
the beautiful corners of the municipality. We will always meet warm-hearted
inhabitants ready to indicate us the right way to reach a watermill, a waterfall
or a chapel.
The warm nights in summer, where the nocturnal animation is fervent, crowding
the various bars and discotheques as well as the main streets and places, come
after the twilight that gives a golden tone to the granite and the harmonious
gardens of the city.
The town is kept busy with its fishing and holiday trade. A main feature is
the attractive main square that features both a 1553 water fountain and the Miseriacσrdia
house that was constructed in 1598. The City Museum housed in a small
Palace is in the main square. It holds a variety of interesting fine items such
as rare ceramics, furniture, paintings and archaeological finds from the area.
In the northwest part of the City the 18th Century Chapel Nossa Senhora da
Agonia plays an important part in its annual celebrations.