Consider this. You are standing in Custóias, a town that embodies both historical roots and modern growth. Custóias became a town in 2003. But its history stretches back much further.
Custóias is a former civil parish. It lies within the municipality of Matosinhos. This is part of the Greater Porto area. In 2013, Custóias merged with Leça do Balio and Guifões. Together, they formed a new parish.
The town is not far from other key locations. Custóias is about 5 kilometers from Matosinhos. Porto is only 8 kilometers away.
Let’s delve into Custóias itself. The town covers 5.78 square kilometers. In 2011, it had a population of 18,650. There were almost equal numbers of men and women. Most of the area is residential. Family dwellings numbered 7596.
At the heart of Custóias is Largo do Souto. This is the town square. Here, you’ll find the parish council. Every Saturday, Custóias hosts a large fair. It takes place near the police station and cemetery.
Custóias has a notable feature. It is home to a state prison. This prison serves the northern region of Portugal. It was built in 1974. The prison has individual cells and dormitories. It includes a Drug-Free Unit. There is also a Health Unit. Inmates can practice sports on a multi-purpose pitch. The prison mainly houses pre-trial detainees from Porto.
Getting around Custóias is easy. The A4 and VRI motorways serve the town. Buses are provided by Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto and Resende. The Porto Metro also has lines to Custóias. Line B and E serve Custóias directly. Line C has stops at Cândido dos Reis and Pias.
Custóias has seen continuous development. It evolved from a rural past. The town is conveniently located. It provides solutions for its growing population. Even the dismantling of Monte de São Gens shows progress.
References from the Middle Ages mention megalithic monuments. These date back to the third and second millennia BC. The Roman conquest influenced Custóias significantly. Excellent roads were built. This favored settlement.
The parish of Santiago de Custóias appeared in records from 1258. These records also mention the ‘Via Veteris’. This was a pilgrimage route to Galicia. Here, Saint James preached Christianity.
The name ‘Costoyas’ or ‘Custodias’ first appeared in 10th-century documents. Over the centuries, Custóias has grown steadily. It became a town on August 26, 2003. The future promises more growth for Custóias.
Custóias celebrates its patron saint. The festival honors São Tiago Maior. It takes place in July. The celebrations occur on the two Sundays closest to the 25th. The first Sunday features a Eucharistic procession. The second Sunday includes another procession and a solemn mass. The fair is held in Largo do Souto.
Custóias offers a blend of history and modern life. From its ancient roots to its present-day status. The town continues to evolve. It welcomes all who seek to understand its story.