How about we uncover the story of Anreade, a place where the Douro River embraces the land? Its history whispers from ancient times. Imagine Anreade nestled alongside the serene Douro. The river’s cool, shaded waters create a captivating scene.
As you traverse Anreade, the Douro’s beauty will indeed enchant you. The land ascends from the riverbanks towards the heights of Alagunta. Each rise reveals a breath of fresh courage and peace. Anreade boasts a rich history, documented as early as 946.
Olito Tedões bequeathed property to his wife Adosinda. This included “a villa that they call Andriati.” This villa was near Mafamude, Fornellos, and Santa Eulália. Evidence suggests early peoples and Romans inhabited this land. Place names like Aregos, Antas, Caldas, and Fornelos hint at this ancient past. The presence of Arabs is documented in names such as Mafamude and Alcavalas.
During medieval times, numerous documents record donations to churches and religious orders. The “Inquirições” of D. Afonso III in 1258 and D. Dinis in 1288 offer insights. These documents reveal details about landowners and the dues they paid. Another important document is the “Foral Novo.” King D. Manuel I granted it to the municipality of Aregos in 1513. It names various places where the king held rights.
Originally, Miomães and S. Romão were part of Anreade. Miomães became independent in the 13th century. S. Romão followed in the 16th century. Anreade was part of the old municipality of Aregos. D. Afonso Henriques created Aregos in 1183. In the 18th century, Anreade housed the council seat. It included the chamber, jail, and gallows.
In 1855, liberal governments dissolved Aregos. Consequently, Anreade became part of Resende. The Parish Cemetery was built in 1875. Manuel Cardoso Júnior constructed it for 380 mil réis. It expanded around 1930. The tomb of the “Santa de Anreade” is next to the Chapel of S. Pedro. It dates back to 1688.
In 1986, the Junta de Freguesia built its headquarters. In 2009, they erected the Funeral Chapel. The Fabriqueira Commission of the Parish ceded the land. The name Anreade appears in medieval documents as “Antreati” and “Andreati.” It likely originates from a Roman lord named “Antreatus.” He may have colonized this land during the Roman era.
The coat of arms of Anreade contains symbolic elements. A fish represents fishing. A tower alludes to the castle of Aregos. A rabelo boat recalls the Douro’s river traffic. These boats carried goods and men. The artist José Maria Soares designed the coat of arms.
Anreade, with its captivating Douro views and rich history, invites us to reflect on the passage of time. It reminds us of the many cultures that have shaped this beautiful land.