Unhão

Whispers of royalty echo through the ages here in Unhão. Legend claims even King Afonso Henriques, Portugal’s first king, once rested within this very village. Unhão is more than just a charming village in Felgueiras. It carries a rich history, woven into the fabric of Portugal itself. The Church of the Saviour, consecrated way back in 1165, stands as a testament to Unhão’s enduring spirit. Its Romanesque architecture whispers tales of a time long past. Unhão wasn’t always just a village. Before 1836, Unhão held the prestigious title of “concelho”, similar to a county seat. It governed a collection of parishes, including Lordelo, Macieira, and others. Imagine the bustling activity, the decisions made, the lives shaped within these ancient walls. The skilled hands of “Magister Sisaldis” oversaw the church’s construction. This master artisan left his mark, a large “S” initial, a rare glimpse into the world of Romanesque builders. Inside the Church of the Saviour, look for Our Lady of the Milk. This polychromatic limestone sculpture holds secrets. Its stillness, the size of the head and hands, point to Romanesque origins. Yet, the child gazing at the Madonna hints at a later Gothic influence. Unhão has seen its population ebb and flow. In 1801, nearly 4,000 souls called this concelho home. Today, around 800 residents keep the spirit of Unhão alive. In 2013, Unhão merged with Lordelo. Together they formed the União das Freguesias de Unhão e Lordelo. But Unhão’s unique identity, its royal whispers and architectural marvels, continue to captivate. Unhão invites you to step back in time. Explore its streets, admire its church. Let the echoes of history guide you.