“Two become one” they say. Here in Celorico de Basto we stand before what was once two distinct entities. Now it is the Uni\u00e3o das Freguesias de Ca\u00e7arilhe e Infesta.
Let me tell you about this special place. It is more than just a name on a map. It is a testament to Portugal’s ever-evolving administrative landscape.
In 2013 a national administrative reform led to the merging of Ca\u00e7arilhe and Infesta. These were two civil parishes or freguesias. They joined together to create a single entity. This new freguesia is officially called Uni\u00e3o das Freguesias de Ca\u00e7arilhe e Infesta. The seat of this union is in Ca\u00e7arilhe.
Before this unification Ca\u00e7arilhe stood alone. It had a recorded population of 466 residents in 2011. These people lived within its 5.95 square kilometers. That made for a population density of about 78 inhabitants per square kilometer.
Infesta also had its own identity.
Together in 2021 the Uni\u00e3o das Freguesias de Ca\u00e7arilhe e Infesta had 510 inhabitants. This population occupies an area of 11.48 square kilometers. That gives a population density of approximately 44.4 inhabitants per square kilometer.
Consider the demographics. Before the merger in 2001 Ca\u00e7arilhe and Infesta had a combined 175 residents aged 0 to 14 years. There were 116 people aged 15 to 24. The largest group was those aged 25 to 64 with 323 people. Finally there were 157 residents aged 65 and over. A total of 771 people called this place home.
By 2011 things had shifted. The 0-14 age group decreased to 100. The 15-24 age group fell slightly to 96. The 25-64 age group increased to 404. The over 65 population remained nearly the same at 158. The total population was 758.
Fast forward to 2021 after the unification. There were 47 residents aged 0 to 14. Those aged 15 to 24 numbered 59. The 25-64 age group totaled 257. The over 65 population was 147. A total of 510 people resided here.
The Rua da Igreja serves as a focal point. It physically connects Ca\u00e7arilhe e Infesta. You can find the Junta de Freguesia here. It is at Rua da Igreja Ca\u00e7arilhe. This is the center of local governance.
Ca\u00e7arilhe e Infesta is also blessed with natural beauty. The Serra do Viso is a highlight. It offers stunning views of the T\u00e2mega River valley. In the foreground you’ll see Monte da Nossa Senhora da Gra\u00e7a. The Serra do Alv\u00e3o and Serra do Mar\u00e3o add to the picturesque landscape.
The Igreja Paroquial de Ca\u00e7arilhe is another point of interest. Also worth a visit is the Capela da Senhora do Viso. These landmarks add to the cultural richness of the area.
As we reflect on Ca\u00e7arilhe e Infesta let’s remember that names and borders may change. The spirit of community endures. The people remain. Their stories continue to unfold. The freguesia is a testament to resilience.