Was it fate that brought us here to Manhuncelos? This Portuguese village holds stories within its borders. It may be small but it is significant.
Manhuncelos was once a parish in the municipality of Marco de Canaveses. In 2013, an administrative reorganization occurred. Manhuncelos joined with Paredes de Viadores. Together, they formed the parish of Paredes de Viadores e Manhuncelos.
Before its extinction as an individual parish Manhuncelos had a small area. It measured just 4.33 square kilometers. The population in 2011 was 486 people. This meant a population density of 112.2 inhabitants per square kilometer.
Let’s look back at the population of Manhuncelos over time. In 1864, the population was 390. By 1890, it had risen to 574. The numbers fluctuated over the years. In 2001, the population stood at 504. By 2011, it had decreased slightly to 486.
The Igreja Paroquial de Manhuncelos is a local landmark. It is located in the district of Porto. The church’s GPS coordinates are 41°8’43″N and 8°8’36″W.
The joining of Manhuncelos with Paredes de Viadores created a larger parish. This new area covers 13.12 square kilometers. The 2021 census recorded 1534 inhabitants. The population density is 116.9 inhabitants per square kilometer.
As we stand here in Manhuncelos imagine life in this village. Picture the people who have lived here over the centuries. They have seen changes come and go. The joining of parishes is just one chapter in its long history. Manhuncelos may be different now. Its story continues as part of a larger whole.