“Another Silvares?” you might ask. Yes this is Silvares in Lousada. It was once a Portuguese parish in the municipality of Lousada. It resided within the district of Porto.
Silvares existed as its own entity for quite some time. Its history is rich with community and tradition. It was home to a vibrant population. In 2011, 3207 people called Silvares home. That is a density of 557.7 inhabitants per square kilometer.
But everything changed on January 28, 2013. A resolution by the Portuguese Assembly altered Silvares forever. It joined with Alvarenga, Nogueira and Pias. These parishes formed a new entity. The new parish was named Silvares, Pias, Nogueira e Alvarenga.
Before its extinction, Silvares was known as Sāo Miguel de Silvares. Some locals also called it Silvares da Serra. It held significance as the town of Lousada. Silvares served as the seat of the municipality.
Ecclesiastically, Silvares had connections to Braga. It later transitioned to a reitoria. In 1882, it shifted from the diocese of Braga. It then became part of the diocese of Porto.
Silvares’s population fluctuated throughout the years. In 1864, it had 705 inhabitants. By 2011, the population had grown to 3207. The parish covered an area of 5.75 square kilometers.
Silvares may no longer exist as an independent parish. It remains an integral part of Lousada’s story. Its legacy lives on. It lives on in the hearts and memories of its people. The union with Pias, Nogueira and Alvarenga ensures its continued presence. Silvares is still on the map.
Remember Silvares. It is a place of history, community and change. Its story reminds us of the evolving nature of places. It reminds us of the enduring spirit of its people.