Portugal’s story is etched in its parishes. Varziela is one such place. Varziela was a freguesia a civil parish in the municipality of Felgueiras. It resided in the district of Porto. Let’s delve into the story of Varziela.
Varziela spanned only 2.85 square kilometers. It was home to 1837 residents in 2011. This resulted in a population density of 644.6 inhabitants per square kilometer. Imagine the close-knit community.
However Varziela’s identity evolved. In 2013 a national administrative reform took place. Varziela joined with Margaride Várzea Lagares and Moure. They formed a new parish. It was named Union of Parishes of Margaride Santa Eulália Várzea Lagares Varziela and Moure. Margaride became its seat.
Varziela held a unique characteristic. Part of it lay within Felgueiras city. The other part nestled in Longra town. This blending of urban and rural defined its geography.
Looking back at Varziela’s population it shows changes. In 1864 it had 631 residents. The number grew to 1985 by 2001. Yet by 2011 it decreased to 1837.
In 2001 children aged 0 to 14 comprised 23.4 percent of Varziela’s population. Those aged 65 and older accounted for 10.8 percent. By 2011 the younger group decreased to 15 percent. The older group increased to 14.5 percent. These shifts reflect demographic trends.
Varziela may be extinct as an individual parish. However its story continues. It lives on within the Union of Parishes. Its people its history and its unique character persist. The spirit of Varziela endures. It remains a part of Portugal’s rich heritage.