Welcome to Argoncilhe, a small town with a rich history, situated just north of Porto. This peaceful community boasts a colorful past, and today, we’ll explore some of the fascinating stories that have shaped this place. Nestled in the heart of Argoncilhe, the Parish Church of São Martinho stands tall, a testament to the enduring faith of the people. This church is more than just a place of worship; it is a symbol of the community’s resilience and its deep connection to their ancestral roots. The oldest written document referencing Argoncilhe dates back to 1086, proving the donation of several buildings of the villa of Eldriz to the Church of São Martinho.
Did you know that the origin of the name Argoncilhe is uncertain? Two versions exist – one suggests that it arises from “areucillus,” meaning “small arch,” which evolved to “Argoncilhe” over time. The other version proposes that the name developed from “Dragoncellus” and eventually evolved to “Argoncilhe”. Throughout its history, Argoncilhe was primarily an agricultural town, with the first industries emerging only in the early 20th century. These industries were linked to forestry, and small industrial units developed only after 1920-1930. The expansion of tungsten mining and refining in the region between 1939 and 1945 was a significant milestone for Argoncilhe, bringing both prosperity and emigration.
Argoncilhe is brimming with historical and cultural treasures that deserve your attention. Here, we’ll find the chapels of São Domingo, San Pedro de São Tomé (with its iconic bell tower), the Senhora do Campo (Our Lady of the Field), and the Church of Cristo Rei (Christ the King). But beyond the churches, the countryside is dotted with archaeological remnants – the millennial bridge of Roçadas and picturesque water mills, all maintained by the local authority. Step back in time and imagine the bustling life of this town during the Roman period. You can almost visualize the horses and carts rolling across the Roman bridge that has stood the test of time. Standing in the heart of Argoncilhe, you can feel the spirit of the past permeating the air, making this small town a place where history comes alive.