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Mirandela, Trás-os-Montes, Portugal

Mirandela is a city in, located, within the sub-region of Terras de Trás-os-Montes.

It covers an area of about 659 square kilometers and has a population of around 21,000 people. The municipality is divided into 30 parishes and is known for its scenic landscapes, with the Tua River running through the city and shaping much of its identity. Historically, Mirandela received its municipal charter in 1250, and it celebrates its local holiday on May 25, commemorating the charter granted by King Afonso III.

The city is often referred to as the "Cidade Jardim" or Garden City, thanks to its riverside gardens and picturesque setting along the Tua. One of its most iconic landmarks is the Ponte Velha, a medieval bridge dating back to the 16th century, which reflects beautifully in the waters of the river. Mirandela offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions, including walking trails, river beaches, and viewpoints that highlight the surrounding hills. Its historic center features palaces, churches, and museums, such as the Olive Oil Museum, which showcases the region’s long tradition of olive cultivation.

Gastronomy is another defining aspect of Mirandela, with the city being famous for its alheiras, a type of smoked sausage that has become a symbol of local cuisine. Olive oil and regional wines also play a central role in its culinary identity. Beyond food, Mirandela hosts festivals, fairs, and cultural events throughout the year, making it a lively destination that blends tradition with modernity. The combination of natural beauty, historical heritage, and rich gastronomy makes Mirandela a distinctive place in Trás-os-Montes, attracting visitors who want to experience authentic.

Suggested Car Tour: Mirandela → Vale de Lobo → Romeu → Santa Combinha → Macedo de Cavaleiros → Salselas → Chacim → Vila Flor → Frechas → Mirandela. Route Length: 150km (93mi).


Mirandela


Suggested walking tour in Mirandela
Empire Park → Old Bridge → Municipal Market → Municipal Museum → Távoras Palace


Fountain of the Empire Park
Empire Park, known locally as Parque do Império, is a public garden in Mirandela situated along Rua Dom Afonso III.

  • Its origins trace back to the mid-19th century, when the Alameda do Cardal promenade was first developed on the banks of the Tua River. Over time, the park expanded and was remodeled, reaching its current form in the 1950s, with further improvements made in the early 1990s. Today, it serves as a central leisure space for residents and visitors, offering green areas, walking paths, and an open-air amphitheater that hosts cultural events and performances.
  • One of the park’s most distinctive features is its luminous water fountain, which adds both beauty and atmosphere to the space. The fountain is illuminated at night, creating a striking visual display that complements the park’s gardens and recreational areas. Together with the historic building that once housed the Sport Club de Mirandela, designed by architect Albino Mendo in 1960, the fountain highlights the blend of heritage and modern leisure that defines Empire Park. It remains a popular spot for relaxation, gatherings, and enjoying the riverside environment.
  • See more at Mirandela- Wikipedia.
  • Photograph by F nando, distributed under a CC-BY 3.0 license.


Empire Park → Old Bridge
Walking route between Empire Park and Old Bridge.


Old Bridge
The Old Bridge of Mirandela, also known as Ponte Velha or Ponte Medieval, is a Romanesque-style structure that spans the Tua River.

  • Its origins date back to the late 15th or early 16th century, though evidence suggests that an earlier bridge may have existed in the same location during medieval times. Construction of the current bridge began under King Manuel I in 1512, and it originally featured twenty arches. Over the centuries, the bridge has undergone several reconstructions, particularly after floods, but it has retained its historical character and remains a central landmark of the city.
  • Classified as a National Monument since 1910, the Old Bridge is one of Mirandela’s most iconic symbols and continues to connect the old town on the left bank with newer areas on the right. Its stone arches and niches, once dedicated to religious figures such as Our Lady of Amparo, highlight its cultural and spiritual significance. Beyond its architectural value, the bridge offers scenic views of the Tua River and surrounding landscape, making it both a functional crossing and a heritage site that embodies the history and identity of Mirandela.
  • See more at Ponte sobre o rio Tua - Wikipedia.
  • Photographs by Pedro, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.


Old Bridge → Municipal Market → Municipal Museum → Távoras Palace
Walking route between Old Bridge, Municipal Market, Municipal and Távoras Palace.


Távoras Palace
Távoras Palace, also known as Paço dos Távoras, is a 17th-century noble residence located in the heart of Mirandela,.

  • Built under the orders of António Luís de Távora, it reflects the prestige and influence of the Távora family in Trás-os-Montes. The palace features a rectangular plan with a mannerist facade, marked by pilasters, spiral pinnacles, and decorative stonework around its doors and windows. Its architectural design was remodeled in the early 18th century, giving it a more imposing appearance and highlighting the family’s coat of arms on the facade. The building occupies a prominent position in Praça do Município, overlooking the Tua River and the Old Bridge, symbolizing both power and heritage.
  • Today, Távoras Palace serves as the seat of the Mirandela City Hall, maintaining its civic importance while preserving its historical character. Classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1983, the palace stands as one of the city’s most significant monuments. In front of the building, visitors can also find a statue of Pope John Paul II, adding a modern cultural layer to the historic setting. The palace remains a central landmark, blending aristocratic history with contemporary municipal life, and continues to be admired for its elegant facade and its role in shaping Mirandela’s identity.
  • See more at Paço dos Távoras - Wikipedia.
  • Photographs by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.


Mirandela → Vale de Lobo → Romeu → House Careto
Driving route between Mirandela, Vale de Lobo (old olive press), Romeu (Museum of Curiosities) and House Careto.


House Careto
The Caretos of Podence are traditional masked figures associated with Carnival festivities in the Trás-os-Montes.

  • Originating in the small village of Podence, near Macedo de Cavaleiros, they represent one of the country’s most distinctive expressions of intangible cultural heritage. The Caretos wear vibrant costumes made of woolen fringes in red, yellow, and green, along with wooden or metal masks painted in striking colors. Their role during Carnival is to run through the streets, playfully chasing people, rattling cowbells tied around their waists, and spreading mischief in a ritual that blends pagan fertility rites with Christian celebrations.
  • Recognized by UNESCO in 2019 as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the Caretos of Podence symbolize the preservation of ancestral traditions in northeastern Portugal. Although Podence is the epicenter of this practice, the influence of the Caretos extends across the region, including Mirandela, where similar masked festivities highlight the shared cultural identity of Trás-os-Montes. Today, the Caretos are celebrated not only as a lively Carnival tradition but also as a cultural emblem that attracts visitors eager to experience the energy, color, and folklore of.
  • See more at Caretos de Podence - Wikipedia.
  • Photographs by Helderrobalo, distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.


House Careto → River Beach Ribeira → Welcome Center do Azibo → River Beach Fraga da Pegada
Driving route between House Careto, River Beach Ribeira (at the Azibo reservoir), Welcome Center do Azibo (interpretation center with marked trail) and River Beach Fraga da Pegada.


Azibo Reservoir Protected Landscape

River Beach Fraga da Pegada
River Beach Fraga da Pegada is a popular leisure spot located on the shores of the Azibo Reservoir, near Podence in the municipality of Macedo de Cavaleiros, not far from Mirandela.

  • It is part of the Azibo Protected Landscape, a natural area recognized for its ecological value and scenic beauty. The beach has been awarded the Blue Flag distinction multiple times, highlighting its environmental quality, safety, and services. Surrounded by hills and green landscapes, it offers a tranquil setting for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying nature.
  • The beach is well-equipped with facilities such as lifeguard services, picnic areas, walking paths, and spaces for water sports. Its clear waters and sandy areas make it a family-friendly destination, while the surrounding trails allow visitors to explore the biodiversity of the Azibo Protected Landscape. Fraga da Pegada is also known for hosting cultural and recreational activities during the summer, making it not only a natural retreat but also a vibrant social hub in the region.
  • See more at Azibo Reservoir Protected Landscape - Wikipedia. and Praia do Azibo - Wikipedia.
  • Photographs by Husond, distributed under a CC-BY 3.0 license.


River Beach Fraga da Pegada → Santa Combinha Viewpoint → Macedo de Cavaleiros
Driving route between River Beach Fraga da Pegada, Santa Combinha Viewpoint and Macedo de Cavaleiros.


Macedo de Cavaleiros

Macedo de Cavaleiros City Hall
Macedo de Cavaleiros City Hall, or Câmara Municipal de Macedo de Cavaleiros, is the administrative center of the municipality located, within the Trás-os-Montes.

  • The building is situated at Jardim 1º de Maio and serves as the headquarters for local governance, providing services to residents across the municipality’s 30 parishes. It operates as the seat of the municipal council, led by the mayor, currently Benjamim Rodrigues, who has held office since 2021. The institution plays a central role in managing public services, urban planning, cultural initiatives, and community development, reflecting the importance of municipal government in Portuguese civic life.
  • The City Hall is not only a functional administrative hub but also a point of reference in the city’s identity. Its offices are open to the public during weekdays, offering services such as treasury, technical support, and citizen assistance. The building’s location near Praça Agostinho Valente and other cultural landmarks makes it accessible and integrated into the daily rhythm of the city. Beyond its bureaucratic role, Macedo de Cavaleiros City Hall supports local events, promotes tourism in the surrounding natural areas like the Azibo Reservoir, and fosters regional traditions, ensuring that governance is closely tied to the cultural and social fabric of the community.
  • See more at Macedo de Cavaleiros - Wikipedia.
  • Photographs by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.


Macedo de Cavaleiros → Salselas
Driving route between Macedo de Cavaleiros and Salselas.


Salselas

Salselas Rural Museum
The Salselas Rural Museum, located in the parish of Salselas in the municipality of Macedo de Cavaleiros, is an ethnographic museum dedicated to preserving the traditional culture of Trás-os-Montes.

  • It was conceived in 1976 by Jaime António Gonçalves, known as the writer António Cravo, who mobilized both the local community and emigrants to safeguard rural heritage that was at risk of disappearing. The museum opened as a collective project, with residents contributing to the construction of the building and donating artifacts. Its permanent exhibition showcases agricultural tools, household objects, folk art, and items that illustrate the transition from rural life to industrialization, offering a vivid portrait of the human and social universe of the region.
  • Beyond its ethnographic displays, the museum also highlights cultural traditions such as the famous Caretos of Podence, with costumes, rattles, and masks that embody local Carnival rituals. Visitors can explore thematic sections that reflect family and community practices, as well as objects linked to spirituality and daily survival in rural villages. By combining material culture with intangible heritage, the Salselas Rural Museum stands as one of the youngest yet most significant museums in northeastern Portugal, representing the collective spirit of a community determined to preserve its identity for future generations.
  • See more at Museu Rural de Salselas - Wikipedia.
  • Photograph by Pedro, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.


Salselas → Chacim
Driving route between Salselas and Chacim.


Chacim

Chacim Pillory
The Chacim Pillory, located in the parish of Chacim in the municipality of Macedo de Cavaleiros, is a historic monument that symbolizes the judicial and administrative autonomy granted to the settlement during the medieval period.

  • Pillories were erected in towns and villages across Portugal after receiving municipal charters, serving as markers of local authority and justice. The Chacim Pillory dates back to the 16th century and is associated with the granting of a charter by King Manuel I, reflecting the importance of Chacim as a regional center at the time. Its presence highlights the village’s role in governance and law enforcement during the early modern era.
  • Architecturally, the pillory is crafted in granite and features a column with a square base, topped by decorative elements that emphasize its symbolic function. Like other pillories in Trás-os-Montes, it was not only a judicial symbol but also a civic landmark, often placed in prominent public spaces to assert municipal identity. Today, the Chacim Pillory is classified as a Property of Public Interest, ensuring its preservation as part of Portugal’s cultural heritage. It remains a reminder of the historical privileges once held by the community and stands as a testament to the region’s medieval and early modern legacy.
  • See more at Pelourinho de Chacim - Wikipedia.
  • Photograph by Reis Quarteu, distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.


Chacim Pillory → Royal Spinning Mill of Chacim
Walking route between Chacim Pillory and Royal Spinning Mill of Chacim.


Royal Spinning Mill of Chacim
The Royal Spinning Mill of Chacim, known in Portuguese as Real Filatório de Chacim, is a historic industrial complex located in the parish of Chacim, within the municipality of Macedo de Cavaleiros.

  • It was established in the 18th century under royal initiative, with the purpose of promoting silk production in Trás-os-Montes. The factory was part of a broader effort by the Portuguese Crown to stimulate local economies and modernize industry, particularly in rural regions. Its construction reflected both economic ambition and architectural sophistication, combining functional design with elements of grandeur that underscored its royal patronage.
  • Although silk production eventually declined, the Royal Spinning Mill remains an important heritage site, symbolizing the industrial history of northeastern Portugal. The building is notable for its imposing facade and stonework, which have been preserved as part of the region’s cultural patrimony. Today, it stands as a reminder of the Crown’s attempts to industrialize the interior of the country and diversify its economy. Classified as a Property of Public Interest, the mill continues to attract visitors interested in the intersection of history, architecture, and early industrial development in Trás-os-Montes.
  • See more at Chacim - Wikipedia.
  • Photograph by Reis Quarteu, distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.


Chacim → Balsamão Convent
Driving route between Chacim and Balsamão Convent.


Balsamão Convent
The Balsamão Convent, also known as the Convent of Nossa Senhora de Balsamão, is located in Chacim, within the municipality of Macedo de Cavaleiros.

  • It was founded in the first half of the 18th century by the Polish friar Casimiro Wiszynski of the Congregation of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception. Originally established as a religious retreat, the convent became a sanctuary dedicated to Our Lady of Balsamão. Its architecture reflects the baroque and 18th-century style, with a rectangular church plan, gilded altars, twisted columns, and an alabaster statue of the Virgin. The site also includes a series of chapels along the hillside representing the Passion of Christ, forming what is known as a Monte Santo, or Holy Mount.
  • Over time, the convent evolved into both a spiritual and cultural center. After the extinction of religious orders in Portugal, the convent was abandoned for a period but later revived by the Marian Fathers, who continue to maintain it today. It now functions as a sanctuary and retreat house, offering accommodation and spaces for prayer, reflection, and conferences. The convent is also a destination for pilgrimages, particularly on March 25, when a traditional romaria is held in honor of Our Lady of Balsamão. With its blend of religious heritage, architectural beauty, and natural setting atop a hill, the Balsamão Convent remains an important landmark in Trás-os-Montes.
  • See more at Convento de Balsamão - Wikipedia.
  • Photograph by Carlos Cunha, distributed under a CC-BY 3.0 license.


Balsamão Convent → Malta → Vila Flor
Driving route between Balsamão Convent, Malta (it used to belong to the Order of Malta) and Vila Flor.


Vila Flor

Castle Arch
The Castle Arch of Vila Flor, also known as the Porta da Vila or Arco de Dom Dinis, is one of the few surviving elements of the medieval Castle of Vila Flor.

  • Built during the reign of King Dinis in the early 14th century, the castle once served as a defensive stronghold against invasions from Castile and León. The arch itself is a pointed granite doorway that provided access to the fortified perimeter, flanked by the remains of a semicircular tower. Though most of the castle’s walls have disappeared into the urban fabric of Vila Flor, the arch endures as a symbol of the town’s medieval heritage and its strategic importance in Trás-os-Montes.
  • Today, the Castle Arch stands as a cultural landmark integrated into the historic center of Vila Flor. It is classified as a Property of Public Interest, ensuring its preservation as part of Portugal’s architectural patrimony. Visitors can still see the grooves where the wooden doors once fitted, a reminder of its defensive function. Alongside the arch, fragments of the old walls and towers evoke the memory of a fortress that once protected the settlement. The site connects Vila Flor’s present-day charm with its medieval past, offering a glimpse into the layered history of this quiet town.
  • See more at Castle of Vila Flor - Wikipedia.
  • Photograph by Husond, distributed under a CC-BY 3.0 license.


Castle Arch → Roman Fountain
Walking route between Castle Arch and Roman Fountain.


Roman Fountain
The Roman Fountain of Vila Flor is a historic structure located in the town’s center, within the district of Bragança.

  • Despite its name, the fountain is not strictly Roman in origin but rather a medieval construction that incorporates classical-inspired elements. It is believed to have been built during the Middle Ages, possibly on the site of an earlier Roman water source, which explains the attribution. The fountain is made of granite and features a simple yet elegant design, with a rounded arch and spout that supplied water to the local population for centuries. Its enduring presence highlights the importance of communal fountains in sustaining daily life in rural towns.
  • Over time, the Roman Fountain has become a cultural landmark and symbol of Vila Flor’s heritage. It is classified as a Property of Public Interest, ensuring its preservation as part of Portugal’s architectural patrimony. The fountain stands near other historic sites, such as the Castle Arch, creating a small ensemble of medieval monuments that reflect the town’s layered history. Today, it remains a point of interest for visitors exploring Vila Flor, offering a glimpse into the practical and symbolic role of water sources in the development of Portuguese communities.
  • See more at Vila Flor - Wikipedia.
  • Photograph by Turismoenportugal, distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.


Roman Fountain → Parish Church of Vila Flor
Walking route between Roman Fountain and Parish Church of Vila Flor.


Parish Church of Vila Flor
The Parish Church of Vila Flor, also known as the Igreja Matriz de Vila Flor or Igreja de São Bartolomeu, is a baroque-style temple built in the 17th century.

  • It features a longitudinal plan with a single nave, a rectangular chancel, and adjoining chapels and sacristy. The facade is flanked by two bell towers, while the main portal and side entrances are richly decorated with geometric and floral motifs. Inside, the church is notable for its gilded baroque altars and an 18th-century panel in the main altar, which add to its ornate character. The sacristy preserves valuable liturgical objects, including a silver monstrance from the 18th century, a crucifix carved in ivory, and a golden crown of Nossa Senhora da Lapa.
  • As the principal religious monument of Vila Flor, the church has long been a focal point for the community’s spiritual and cultural life. Its architectural style reflects the influence of baroque churches from Braga, with decorative exuberance that combines both local and traditional elements. Classified as a Property of Public Interest, the Parish Church of Vila Flor stands alongside other historic landmarks such as the Castle Arch and Roman Fountain, forming part of the town’s heritage ensemble. Today, it continues to serve as a place of worship while also attracting visitors interested in the artistic and historical richness of Trás-os-Montes.
  • See more at Vila Flor - Wikipedia.
  • Photographs by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.


Parish Church of Vila Flor → Berta Cabral Municipal Museum
Walking route between Parish Church of Vila Flor and Berta Cabral Municipal Museum.


💡 Tip
Berta Cabral Municipal Museum


The Berta Cabral Municipal Museum, located in Vila Flor, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the cultural and historical heritage of the region.

  • Named after Berta Cabral, a local figure who played a significant role in promoting cultural initiatives, the museum houses collections that reflect the traditions, archaeology, and ethnography of Trás-os-Montes. Its exhibits include artifacts from daily rural life, religious art, and archaeological finds that trace the development of the community over centuries. The museum serves as a cultural hub, offering visitors insight into the identity and memory of Vila Flor and its surrounding areas.
  • Beyond its permanent collections, the museum also organizes temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events that engage both residents and visitors. It plays an important role in safeguarding local traditions while fostering dialogue between past and present. By highlighting the richness of Vila Flor’s heritage, the Berta Cabral Municipal Museum contributes to the preservation of regional identity and promotes cultural tourism in northeastern Portugal.
  • See more at Museu Municipal Berta Cabral - Wikipedia.


Vila Flor → Senhora da Lapa Viewpoint → Peneireiro Dam
Driving route between Vila Flor, Senhora da Lapa Viewpoint and Peneireiro Dam.


Peneireiro Dam
The Peneireiro Dam, or Barragem do Peneireiro, is located in the municipality of Vila Flor.

  • Constructed between 1971 and 1973, it is an earthfill dam built on the Ribeira do Arco, a tributary within the Douro basin. The structure rises 15 meters above its foundation, with a crest length of nearly 693 meters, and has a total reservoir capacity of about 0.77 million cubic meters. Its primary function is water supply for irrigation and local consumption, reflecting the importance of small-scale dams in supporting agriculture and communities in Trás-os-Montes.
  • Beyond its utilitarian role, the Peneireiro Dam has become a local attraction thanks to its tranquil surroundings and river beach area. The reservoir offers scenic views, picnic areas, and opportunities for walking, meditation, and family outings. It is often described as a peaceful spot for enjoying nature, with nearby amenities that make it suitable for leisure and recreation. This dual identity—serving both as vital infrastructure and as a recreational landscape—illustrates how rural dams in Portugal contribute not only to water management but also to community well-being and tourism.
  • See more at Barragem do Peneireiro - Wikipedia.
  • Photograph by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.


Peneireiro Dam → Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Assumption → Frechas
Driving route between Peneireiro Dam, Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Assumption and Frechas.


Frechas Pillory
The Frechas Pillory, located in the parish of Frechas in the municipality of Mirandela, is a historic monument that symbolizes the judicial and administrative autonomy once granted to the settlement.

  • Pillories were erected in towns and villages across Portugal after receiving municipal charters, serving as markers of local authority and justice. The Frechas Pillory dates back to the 16th century, following the Manueline style typical of King Manuel I’s reign. Its construction reflected the importance of Frechas as a regional center, where local governance and law enforcement were exercised under the crown’s authority.
  • Architecturally, the pillory is carved in granite and features a column rising from a square base, topped with decorative elements that emphasize its symbolic function. It was traditionally placed in a prominent public space, reinforcing its role as a civic landmark and a reminder of municipal privileges. Today, the Frechas Pillory is classified as a Property of Public Interest, ensuring its preservation as part of Portugal’s cultural heritage. It remains a testament to the medieval and early modern history of Trás-os-Montes, connecting the present-day village with its past identity as a self-governing community.
  • See more at Pelourinho de Frechas - Wikipedia.
  • Photograph by Petroevr, distributed under a CC-BY 1.0 license.


Frechas Pillory → Mirandela
Driving route between Frechas Pillory and Mirandela.


Suggested Car Tour


Suggested Car Tour Map


Where to Stay


Hotels Map


Where to Eat


Restaurants Map

💡 Tip
Local Culinary Traditions


  • Bread
    • Corn bread (Broa de Milho) – traditional Trás-os-Montes bread baked in community ovens
  • Soups
    • Traditional Rancho – hearty broth with beef, pork chorizo, potatoes, chickpeas, and pasta
  • Fish Dishes
    • Grilled river fish – dishes featuring fish from the Tua River, often served simply with olive oil and herbs (regional specialty mentioned in local gastronomy guides)
  • Meat Dishes
    • Alheira de Mirandela – the city’s most famous smoked sausage, made with bread, poultry, and pork, often served with boiled potatoes and greens
    • Roast kid (Cabrito assado) – oven-roasted goat, a festive dish in Trás-os-Montes cuisine
    • Roast pork (Leitão assado) – crispy roasted suckling pig, popular in celebrations
  • Sweets
    • Aletria – sweet vermicelli pudding with milk, sugar, lemon zest, and cinnamon
    • Arroz doce – creamy rice pudding flavored with lemon and cinnamon
    • Folar – Easter sweet bread, sometimes with meat fillings, typical of Trás-os-Montes
  • Wine
    • Trás-os-Montes wines – robust red and white wines produced in the region, often accompanying Mirandela’s rich cuisine


Where to Go to Bars and Pubs


Bars and Pubs Map

See Also


Source