Legend whispers of a French lady Madamemoiselle. Her name morphed into Moazellus then Mozelos. This charming town near Porto boasts a rich history. It’s more than just a pretty face. Mozelos is a place where history breathes.
Established as a village in 1097 Mozelos held its own against the tides of time. A Roman road still winds near its church a silent testament to centuries past. The year 1514 marked a significant step. King Manuel I included Mozelos in Feira’s charter. The town officially declared itself a Vila on June 24 1989 a date they celebrate annually.
The influence of the Order of Malta is palpable. They owned land and rights in Mozelos. This Order was connected to the now-extinct parish of Santa Maria de Meladas. A devastating plague in the late 15th century decimated its population. A small chapel at Quinta de Meladas stands as a poignant reminder. The Maltese Cross marks the parish’s boundaries.
A darker chapter unfolded in 1809. The French invasion left an indelible scar. Three French soldiers died. In retaliation seven innocent Mozelos residents were executed. Their bodies hung from a pine tree near the EN1 road. The tree became known as the Pine of Seven Crosses. An 1885 hermitage stands there today. The Pine of Seven Crosses remains in the town’s coat of arms.
Mozelos has seen growth. Its town hall opened in 1982. A mortuary chapel was added in 2001. The cemetery expanded three times.
This thriving community is also a national cork production center. Américo Amorim a Mozelos native built an empire. He was one of the most prominent figures in the cork industry. He was once Portugal’s richest man. Other notable figures include footballer Rúben Neves and Xutos & Pontapés drummer Kalu.
Mozelos is a blend of past and present. A town that honors its heritage. It thrives with a vibrant community. It is a reminder that even small towns have big stories to tell. This town beckons you to explore its layers of history. It invites you to discover the heart of Mozelos.