Anta e Guetim

Anta e Guetim. A union forged from history. It whispers tales of ancient settlements and religious fervor. Anta e Guetim officially became one in 2013. But its roots stretch back centuries, to a time when Anta and Guetim were distinct entities. Let’s journey back to the 9th century. Imagine the landscape, dotted with small communities. The first whispers of Anta and Guetim emerge. Fast forward to 1025. King Dinis’s documents mention “Geijim.” A mere twelve years later, “The Testament of Vila de Anta” surfaces, solidifying Anta’s presence in history. By the early 11th century, Anta transformed into a hub of religious activity. Abade Tudeildo, backed by a local noble family, established a monastery. This monastery thrived, dedicated to numerous saints but primarily to Saint Martin, still the patron saint of Anta. By 1220, Anta was a recognized parish within the Diocese of Porto. Guetim also owes its growth to the Catholic Church. The Bispado do Porto selected Guetim as the site for a granary. This served as a collection point for taxes, paid in grain and wine by neighboring parishes. These parishes included Seixezelo, Mozelos, Oleiros, Nogueira da Regedoura, Anta, Silvalde, and São Félix da Marinha. In 1708, Guetim housed a modest 43 inhabitants, growing to 25 households by 1796. Anta itself was once part of the “Terras de Santa Maria.” It later became known as “Terra da Feira” or “Julgado da Feira.” Interestingly, what is now the city of Espinho once belonged to the parish of Anta. This connection lasted until 1886 when Espinho became its own parish and eventually, a municipality. Anta and Guetim then became part of Espinho’s territory. Their individual identities remained until the administrative reorganization of 2013. Anta e Guetim stands today as a testament to this rich and layered past.