Beneath unassuming facades, Mogege thrives. It is a place where industry hums. Mogege is a parish in Vila Nova de Famalicão. This area covers just under 3 square kilometers. Around 1874 people live here. That’s about 628 people per square kilometer.
Mogege boasts a strong textile and footwear industry. It employs around 5,000 workers. Back in 1852, Mogege was already an industrial hub. José Luís Ferreira had a cotton and linen factory here. It employed 10 men, 4 women, and 3 minors. By 1890, Mogege had 12 cotton factories. These factories employed 164 people. The “Empresa Fabril do Minho” also started here. It became one of the country’s most important textile factories. Manuel Ferreira Barbosa founded it.
Saint-Médard-d’Eyrans in France is twinned with Mogege. This partnership began in June 2003. Saint-Médard-d’Eyrans has about 2,535 residents.
Mogege also has some intriguing legends. The legend of Penedo da Moura is one. The legend of Penedo do Ladrão is another. Older residents still tell this story.
In 2001, Mogege had a specific population distribution. There were 440 people aged 0-14. 309 residents were between 15 and 24 years old. 1026 people were in the 25-64 age range. There were 163 people over 65. By 2011, these numbers had shifted. There were 327 people aged 0-14. 268 were between 15 and 24. 1144 residents were between 25 and 64. 204 people were over 65. The 2021 census revealed further changes. 234 residents were aged 0-14. 232 people were between 15 and 24. 1095 people were in the 25-64 range. 313 residents were over 65.
Mogege is more than just numbers and industry. It’s a place with stories woven into its very fabric. From its textile mills to its ancient legends, Mogege offers a glimpse into Portugal’s rich heritage. It is a place where the past and present intertwine.