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Romanesque Route

3 - 6 Apr 25

Discover Romanesque art in the north, an artistic expression that transcends centuries and reflects the rich cultural heritage of Portugal.

Romanesque Route

Price

575 €

Duration

Dates:

4 days

3 - 6 Apr 25

Romanesque Route

Itinerary: Penafiel | Lousada | Aveleda | Felgueiras | Amarante | Santa Cruz do Douro


The Romanesque Route offers the opportunity to explore churches, monasteries, and bridges that represent the pinnacle of Romanesque art in Northern Portugal. It provides an immersive experience in Romanesque aesthetics, exploring the architectural and decorative details that define this unique style, which tells centuries of history and faith. Participants will be guided by specialized experts who will provide detailed historical context for each site visited.

NOT TO BE MISSED


  • Visit the Church of São Pedro de Abragão, a classic example of Romanesque architecture, with frescoes and sculptures that capture the spirituality of the Middle Ages.

  • Explore the Ponte da Veiga and Torre de Vilar in Lousada, historic landmarks in the region, offering stunning views of the Rio Sousa and the medieval legacy.

  • Discover Quinta da Aveleda, one of the biggest names in the region's green wines, with a tour of the vineyards and a wine tasting.

  • Visit the Monastery of Santa Maria de Pombeiro and the Monastery of Salvador de Travanca, impressive testimonies of Portuguese Romanesque architecture.

  • Explore Casa de Tormes and the Eça de Queiroz Foundation, where you can learn about the life and works of the famous Portuguese author.

PROGRAMME:


Day 1: Penafiel | Lousada

Morning: Departure from the origin points. Lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon: In Penafiel, visit the Memorial da Ermida, a 14th-century Gothic monument known for its elegant and symbolic architecture, representing the local faith and devotion. Continue to visit the Church of São Pedro de Abragão, a 12th-century church featuring frescoes and sculptures typical of the time, with its architectural simplicity reflecting the spirituality of the Romanesque style. In Lousada, the visit includes the Ponte da Veiga, a medieval bridge connecting the banks of the Sousa River. Next, explore the Torre de Vilar, a defensive tower from the 13th century, symbolizing resistance and history. To end the day, the Centro Interpretativo do Românico offers an interactive perspective on the Romanesque legacy in the region, with exhibits on the history, art, and architecture of this style that deeply influenced the Vale do Sousa.

Evening: Dinner and overnight at Hotel Penafiel Park 4* or similar.

 

Day 2: Aveleda | Felgueiras

Morning: Guided tour of Quinta da Aveleda, known for its wine production, especially Vinho Verde. The visit includes a walk through the beautiful gardens and vineyards, followed by a wine tasting. The tour continues to the Church of São Vicente de Sousa, an example of local Romanesque architecture. Lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Visit the Monastery of Santa Maria de Pombeiro, one of the largest Romanesque buildings in the region, with a history dating back to the 12th century. This monastery has been restored and preserved, being an important Romanesque heritage landmark. In Felgueiras, stop at the Fábrica do Pão de Ló de Margaride, where you can learn about the traditional process of making Pão de Ló, a famous Portuguese sweet treat.

Evening: Dinner and overnight at Hotel Penafiel Park 4* or similar.

 

Day 3: Amarante

Morning: Visit the Monastery of Salvador de Travanca, one of the most notable examples of Romanesque architecture in Portugal. This 12th-century monastery retains an impressive defensive tower and is a testament to the religious and military significance of the medieval period. Continue to Amarante, with a walk through the historic center, where you can observe typical architecture, such as houses with balconies overlooking the Tâmega River. Lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Guided tour of the Church and Monastery of São Gonçalo, a symbol of Amarante, and the Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso Museum, which houses works by one of Portugal’s most important modernist artists, along with temporary contemporary art exhibitions. Free time in Amarante for individual exploration of the city.

Evening: Dinner and overnight at Hotel Penafiel Park 4* or similar.

 

Day 4: Santa Cruz do Douro

Morning: Travel to Santa Cruz do Douro to visit the Fundação Eça de Queiroz, home to the Casa de Tormes, the former holiday residence of writer Eça de Queiroz. This site provides an insight into the life and works of the famous author, with guided tours of his personal and literary spaces. Lunch at the "A Casa do Lavrador" Rural and Ethnographic Museum Restaurant. To conclude the itinerary, continue to the Douro region to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the vineyards and estates. Along the way, stop to visit the Monastery of Santo André de Ancede. This monastery is an example of medieval architecture but also has Baroque characteristics, due to alterations made over the centuries.

Afternoon: Return to the origin points.

 

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