Viana do Castelo, or just Viana for friends, is a city located in the north of Portugal in the Minho region. It’s a very traditional city with many customs and had play a key role in Portuguese history at the time of the Discoveries ⛵, as well as in cod fishing. Given that it’s located next to the Atlantic Ocean, it can be said that the focus of the city is essentially maritime.

“I'm from Minho, I'm from Minho, from Viana born
Whoever doesn't know Viana,
doesn't know Portugal!”

City history

Most Portuguese cities are known for being very charming and picturesque due to all their historical background. Viana do Castelo is no exception. Located almost in the extreme north of Portugal 🇵🇹 practically next to Spain, the occupation of the region dates back many years ago, at the time of the Mesolithic period, according to numerous archaeological finds. The village of Viana was constituted in an official way in 1258 under the name of Viana da Foz do Lima (due to the Lima River) after receiving a Charter from Afonso III of Portugal. Its port was very important during the Age of Discoveries, since it was from this village that the boats left and then came back full of treasures that enriched the population. The development of the city happened essentially with the export of wines, fruit and salt, and the import of cutlery, fabrics, tapestries and glass, having become an important trading post. Years later, in 1848, its name changed to Viana do Castelo when D. Maria II granted it the title of city.

The origin of the city name

It tells one of the legends that the inhabitants of Viana liked to admire the beauty of a castle 🏰 that once existed in the region. Some of these inhabitants began to claim that they had seen a princess peeking through one of the castle's windows. They said it was a very beautiful girl named Ana, with light eyes and long, blond hair with two braids (Rapunzel, it that you?). The princess didn’t like to be seen in public and hid herself whenever she realized she was being watched. Because of this, the people who could see the princess were privileged and whenever they saw her they said "I saw Ana in the castle!” and that in Portuguese seems like “Vi-Ana no Castelo”. This legend says that this was how the name of Viana do Castelo came up.

Attractions to visit

Viana do Castelo is a city worthy of a trip of one or two days where most attractions are located in its historic center very close to each other. Through the streets and alleys of its historic center it’s possible to get to know all the charms such as the majestic historic buildings and the squares, where there is an evident predominance of Manueline, Baroque, revivalist and art-deco styles. I will highlight 5 attractions that I consider the most beautiful in the city, most of which are free and can be visited on a half-day tour.

1. Santuário do Sagrado Coração de Jesus

The Santuário do Sagrado Coração de Jesus is one of the most famous and beautiful in the country. It has a privileged location and an incredible panoramic view of the city of Viana do Castelo. The construction of this sanctuary began in 1904 and lasted for several years due to the delays caused by the two world wars. To find out more about visiting this sanctuary click here to go to a blog article exclusively dedicated to this attraction.

Santa Luzia - Viana do CasteloSanta Luzia - Viana do CasteloSanta Luzia - Viana do Castelo

2. Sé Catedral of Viana do Castelo

The Sé Catedral of Viana, considered as the Mother Church, marks the first chapter of Viana's development during the Middle Ages. Its construction, in a mix between Gothic and romantic styles, began in 1400 at the behest of the Avis dynasty. Years later, two violent fires 🔥, caused serious destruction which meant that the church had to be partially rebuilt in the second half of the 19th century. It’s located in the historic center of the city, right next to Praça da República, and is a secular church that was established as a cathedral in 1977.

Sé Catedral de Viana do CasteloSé Catedral de Viana do CasteloSé Catedral de Viana do Castelo

3. Praça da República

In Viana do Castelo, all roads lead to Praça da República. It’s the main square in the city and is always a busy place with some cafes, shops and restaurants. It was already named as Campo do Forno, Praça da Rainha (Queen square) and finally Praça da República (Republic square). Here are located several historic buildings such as the Paços do Concelho, the Igreja da Misericórdia and, more recently, the Museu do Traje. In the middle of the square is a Renaissance-style fountain that was created by João Lopes, a Portuguese builder who was born around 1500. From this square it’s possible to have a privileged and direct view of Monte de Santa Luzia.

Praça da República - Viana do CasteloPraça da República - Viana do CasteloPraça da República - Viana do Castelo

4. Confeitaria Natário (berliner)

Located in the historic center of Viana, very close to Praça da República, the Confeitaria Natário is recognized for its Berliners 😍 (the Portuguese Bola do Berlim). It was founded in January 1970 by José Natário and has always been in the family's management for more than 5 decades. About a thousand Berliners are produced daily and the queue at the door is a good indicator of the quality of their products. I confirm! I'm not a big fan of Berliners and I really liked the flavor. The cream is sweet but not nauseating.

Confeitaria NatárioConfeitaria NatárioConfeitaria Natário

5. Gil Eannes Ship

The Gil Eannes Ship was a Portuguese hospital ship 🏥 that is currently anchored in the fishing port of Viana do Castelo. It was very important in the 20th century to provide assistance in cod fishing activities, in Canadian waters and in Greenland. At the time, its function was really needed given that Portuguese vessels were isolated for several months fishing. Currently, the ship is split in half — one half is a museum (“Centro do Mar de Viana”) and the other half is an hotel. The ticket to enter the museum costs 4.50€ per person and the opening hours depend on the day, so it’s easier to consult the official website.

Gil EannesGil EannesGil Eannes

This city on the north coast of Portugal is characterized by its combination of sea, river and mountain that makes it a great attraction for its visitors. In addition, it has several attractions in its historic center that, without a doubt, are worth a visit. 💙

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