Destination
One of the most charming destinations at the north of the country, Vila do Conde is the ideal place to rest, learn more about the history of Portugal, contemplate the Ave River and appreciate the rich fauna and flora of its estuary.
Some of the most striking tourist attractions and
local festivities that attract visitors to Vila do Conde:
Santa Clara Church
The beginning of works on this religious monument with Gothic, Manueline, Baroque and Rococo characteristics, began in 1318. Declared as a National Monument of Portugal, presents a cross shaped plan with a single nave, with a large transept. On the outside, the highlight is the polygonal headboard, as well as a large radiant rose window.
Among other additions to the building that occurred over time, the Capela dos Fundadores, in Manueline style, and the rococo organ stand out. The tomb chests of D. Afonso Sanches and D. Teresa Martins de Meneses are in the chapel, both meticulously carved on all sides with representations of biblical scenes.
Tradition has it that, to ensure a sunny day at the time of the wedding, brides must take the number of eggs equivalent to the date of the event and offer them to Santa Clara. This custom attracts hundreds of brides every year to the Church of Santa Clara, a practice that keeps hope alive for a splendid day.
Vila do Conde Aqueduct
With Romanesque inspiration, the Vila do Conde Aqueduct is the second longest in the country. It is a national monument, inserted in the architectural complex of the Church and Monastery of Santa Clara, having been considered the third most beautiful aqueduct in the world, by the Spanish edition of National Geographic magazine.
It was planned in 1626 on the initiative of Abbess D. Bárbara Micaela de Ataíde, to supply water to the Santa Clara Monastery and was only completed in 1714. Originally, it is said to have 999 arches and covered an area of around 7 km. Naturally, most of them are destroyed today, but it is undoubtedly a monument that cannot be missed in the beautiful Vila do Conde city.
Bobbin Lace Museum
As host of one of the most prestigious craft fairs, Bobbin Lace is a centuries-old tradition and a striking feature of Vila do Conde. They are one of the city’s ex-libris and have gained importance since the 16th century.
In 2015, the municipality of Vila do Conde set a record for the Largest Bobbin Lace in the World, certified by Guinness World Records. The piece is on display at the Bobbin Lace Museum, which contains old lace and collections, and where it is possible to see the lace makers at work. This unique and unmissable experience is one of the must-dos for anyone visiting the city and will certainly remain in everyone’s memory.
The exhibition presents traditional Vilacondense lace and also displays several contemporary laces, the result of a set of activities developed with other lace producing centers in Europe, as well as numerous contemporary works, designed by portuguese designers.
Visit to the Replica of a 16th Century Ship
Since 2007 in the waters of the Ave River, the replica of the Nau Quinhentista has been an important and precious complement to the Alfândega Régia – Naval Construction Museum. It is an important element of tourist and entertainment attraction, which also has a pedagogical function, as it incorporates the ancestral knowledge of carpenters and caulkers from Vilacondense shipyards.
The Portuguese ship of the 16th century was a round ship, with a high board, which satisfied a greater need for carrying capacity than the previously known in Portuguese navigation.
In this replica of the 16th Century Ship, it will be possible to see what the quarters of some of the crews were like, and the crew members themselves, through human sculptures. At the same time, various navigation instruments, cartographic material and different types of merchandise are on display, seeking to enlighten visitors about the vicissitudes of life on board.
Cividade de Bagunte
Vila do Conde’s tourist itinerary is so complete that it even includes archeology for its visitors. The Bagunte City is the most advertised archaeological site in the municipality, having been classified as a National Monument in 1910. It is known as an ancient settlement, of pre-Roman origin, which has a complex system of walls since the 18th century.
It is a settlement of enormous dimensions, with more than 50 hectares of area, the object of a cultural revitalization project – the Bagunte archaeological field. In archaeological excavations, the “Torques de Bagunte” were found, five silver jewels that attest to the importance and artistic level of this community.
It is located to the northeast in the Municipality of Vila do Conde, at an elevation that reaches 206 meters in altitude, being the highest point in the parish, where water lines originate, most of which drain into the river.
Feasts of Senhor dos Navegantes
A unique religious event involving the people of Caxinas and Poça da Barca, which attracts thousands of visitors every year, usually at the beginning of August.
The program has several cultural, recreational, and sporting initiatives, but its highlight is the majestic procession that translates into an impressive manifestation of faith and religion, demonstrated by the fishermen carrying the Saints figures.
The festivities aim to praise and honor the Patron Saint of Caxinas and Poça da Barca, whose devotion is particularly maintained by all those who earn their living with what the sea offers them, during extremely adverse conditions.
Feasts of Corpo de Deus
Every four years, in the month of June, the main streets of Vila do Conde take on a very special meaning, as they are decorated with carpets of flowers full of color and beauty, one of the most striking traditions of the municipality and its people.
The flower carpets are an unusual event, the result of a community effort, which reinforces the identity of Vila do Conde in the country and the world. An ancient art and tradition, passed down from generation to generation, which can be admired from the historic center to the riverside. The streets are covered with flower petals and leaves, creating colorful figures full of details, which give a unique charm to the Corpo de Deus (Corpus Christi) procession. It is a true collective work of art and a moment that impresses locals and tourists, due to the scale of the initiative and the detail, exuberance, and attention to detail.
These and many other activities can be organized in the destination of Vila do Conde, a city full of historical corners and unparalleled beauty, with a special focus on the Rio Ave and the Atlantic waterfront cycle path, which supports the extensive sandy Blue Flag beaches. and Gold Award. Relaxing walks and bike rides can be taken along a four- kilometer stretch, with the beautiful Santa Clara Monastery as a backdrop.
Connect your story with our history
Sharing experiences, stories, and memories is the enduring essence that guides us on a timeless journey.
Your story will always be ours, intertwining to create a unique and remarkable narrative.
A Timeless Journey of History and Luxury.
An Authentic Destination
SERVICES
EXPERIENCES
At The Lince Santa Clara, discover a world of experiences that reflect the cultural richness of this coastal city.
DISCOVER