In 1049 a testament reveals Ansur Dias bequeathed properties to Cete Monastery. Among them was the Carcavelos de Riba Sousela estate. This estate lay between Sousa and Sousela nestled at the foot of Mount Calvelo. Lustosa’s history is deeply rooted in this land.
Lustosa a village in the municipality of Lousada boasts a rich past. Its story unfolds through centuries of change. The village’s name is linked to the Saint James Church. A 1258 document refers to it as Sancti Jacobi de Lustosa. This reveals the church’s patronage belonged to the Ferrazes knights and their heirs. The Archbishop of Braga held ultimate authority over this patronage.
A 1551 agreement between Archbishop D Baltazar and Gaspar Nunes Barreto solidified the church’s patronage. It would remain with the Barreto and Ferraz families of Porto. This further highlights Lustosa’s historical ties to powerful families and religious institutions.
Lustosa’s administrative boundaries shifted over time. Initially it was part of the Minho province under the Braga Archbishopric. It also fell within the Aguiar de Sousa council and the Porto city district. Later it belonged to the extinct Barrosas council. It became part of Lousada council in 1853. This reflects the shifting political landscape.
Lustosa’s ecclesiastical jurisdiction also changed. Originally under Braga’s diocese it transferred to Porto’s in 1882. The village belonged to the Amarante ecclesiastical district in 1907. Later in 1970 it was part of Lousada’s second vicariate. These changes highlight the evolution of religious administration.
The population of Lustosa flourished. In 1864 it had just over 1000 inhabitants. By 2011 this grew significantly to 4792. This impressive growth demonstrates the village’s resilience and prosperity over time. The 2013 administrative reorganization merged Lustosa with Barrosas. The new entity is Lustosa and Barrosas (Santo Estêvão). The village continues to be a vibrant part of Lousada’s cultural heritage. Its lasting legacy reminds us of its resilient spirit. The history of Lustosa is a testament to a community’s enduring connection to its land. Its story weaves through centuries of religious authority political changes and population growth. It stands as a vibrant reminder of Portugal’s rich tapestry of history.