Medas

Hidden amidst the rolling hills and the meandering Douro River, lies the quaint village of Medas. Medas exudes a timeless charm, whispering tales of a rich past. Let us journey back to a time when Medas thrived as a rural community. In the late 19th century, the discovery of antimony mines in the slopes of Serra dos Ações transformed Medas. The mines, including the renowned Fontinha mine, brought an influx of workers from across Portugal. Medas remained primarily agricultural. But the mines spurred economic growth and introduced new customs and musical traditions. The 19th century saw a stark contrast in clothing, reflecting social class and profession. Families in Medas, like many rural communities, strived for self-sufficiency. They cultivated crops like corn, potatoes, rye, wheat, and grapes for wine and oil. They also grew flax for linen. While coarser fabrics were woven locally, finer materials like silk and velvet were purchased in Porto or at fairs. The poorest often went barefoot in summer and wore clogs or sandals in winter. Their clothes were simple, made from linen, wool, or coarse cotton. Velvet and silk were reserved for the wealthy. Amidst the hard labor in the fields, music filled the air. Desfolhadas (corn-husking gatherings) and escapeladas (flax-scutching events) were often accompanied by lively songs and dances. The music echoed with the sounds of the viola, guitar, cavaquinho, ferrinhos (triangles), bombo (a type of drum), and concertina. The church served as the heart of Medas, a central point for festivities and cultural expression. The original church, likely built around 1587, was replaced between 1881 and 1885. In 1930, a bell tower was added, funded by the Viana brothers of Casa da Estivada who had emigrated to Brazil. Along with the chapels in Vila Cova and Broalhos, these three religious structures shaped the collective life of Medas. The challenging terrain and poor soil meant that forestry played a vital role, supplementing agricultural activities. “Carqueja, urze, rachão, and mutena” (local plants used as fuel) were transported down the Douro River to heat the stoves and ovens of Porto. This trade acted as a financial safety net for farmers during lean years. Around 1930, the construction of the municipal road connecting Medas to Gondomar and Porto via Serra dos Açores brought the first regular motorized transport. This new road offered safer and more comfortable journeys, lessening the reliance on the Douro River. Later, in 1956, a new road along the Douro River further diminished the importance of the older mountain route. The same period saw the construction of a coal-fired power plant, adding an industrial touch to Medas’ landscape for around 40 years. Today, Medas boasts modern amenities, including a health center, post office, schools, sports facilities, a campsite, and a sailing training center. Cultural associations like the Rancho Folclórico “As Ceifeiras de Santa Maria de Medas,” the Sociedade Columbófila “10 de Junho,” the Medense Futebol Clube, and various social assistance groups enrich the community life. Medas, in its quiet charm, continues to evolve. It holds onto its history while embracing the future.