Heritage of Terras de Bouro, Living Culture
A Region Rich in Memory and Tradition
When you visit Terras de Bouro, you quickly realize that this is not just a region of lush nature — it is also a territory deeply marked by history. From the Roman presence to the communal ways of life that endured until the 20th century, everything here tells a story.
When you stay at Encostas da Torre, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the past through authentic, accessible places full of cultural significance.
1. Roman Geira – Via Nova
The Geira Romana, also known as Via Nova, is an ancient road built in the 1st century AD. by the Roman Empire, which linked Bracara Augusta (Braga) to Asturica Augusta (Astorga, in Spain). In Terras de Bouro, this historic road is particularly well preserved and offers a fascinating route for walking or cycling.
Ao longo dos seus cerca de 30 km visíveis no território, é possível encontrar dezenas de marcos miliários (pedras cilíndricas com inscrições imperiais que indicavam as distâncias em milhas), pequenas pontes em pedra e estruturas auxiliares que testemunham a sofisticação da engenharia romana.
The route crosses forests and mountain areas, providing a mixed experience between contact with nature and time travel. Information signs along the way help visitors to contextualize the importance of this centuries-old route.
Tip: Ideal for lovers of history, archaeology and long-distance hiking. You can do short stretches or the entire route.
2. Vilarinho da Furna
Few places in Portugal evoke as much emotion as the submerged village of Vilarinho da Furna. This communal village was evacuated in the 1970s to make way for the dam's reservoir, and its ruins remain submerged—except in dry years, when they magically reappear.
More than a village, Vilarinho da Furna represents a unique form of social organization: community life, in which all inhabitants made decisions collectively, from water distribution to shifts for the oven and mill.
Today, the history of the village is preserved in the Vilarinho da Furna Ethnographic Museum, where you can see photographs, utensils, videos and models that explain the way of life of the former residents.
Fun fact: During periods when the dam's water level drops, it is possible to physically visit the foundations of the original houses, streets and corrals — a touching and rare experience.
3. Medieval Bridge of Carvalheira
The Carvalheira Bridge is a charming example of medieval civil architecture. Built in granite, with a single arch and trestle deck, it crosses the Homem River in a serene and almost magical area. It is believed that this bridge was part of an important pilgrimage route that connected Braga to the interior of Portugal.
Surrounded by trees and the sounds of running water, the bridge offers a great spot for picnics, photo shoots and contemplative walks. It is also integrated into ecological trails and is easily accessible by car, with parking nearby.
Today, the place remains relatively uncrowded, which contributes to a sense of personal discovery and a moment of pause amidst nature and history.
Come and experience the history of Terras de Bouro
At Encostas da Torre, culture is within your reach. Whether you want to visit Roman ruins, explore historic villages or cross medieval bridges, we're here to help you plan your cultural itinerary.
👉 Get in touch and enjoy the best that the Gaucho heritage has to offer with comfort, tranquility and hospitality.
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