Valença is as far north in Portugal that you can travel by train and is deep within the lush Minho region of Portugal. The town is set in an idyllic location, surrounded by walls and displays all the characteristic features of a town that was fortified in the seventeenth century in the style of the French military architect, Vauban. Craggy mountains and wide rivers, and the Minho River form the natural border with Spain.
Its first name was "Contrasta", which referred to a village standing opposite another one and was clearly a reference to its position directly across the River Minho from the Galician town of Tui.
Valença was historically the focal point for the defence of northern Portugal from its larger neighbour, and along the banks of the slow flowing river, a massive fortification was constructed to deter invasion. Today the Spanish invasion is of a different form, as hordes of bargain hunting Spanish flock to the city to purchase cheap linear and cloth items.
The Valença Fortaleza is one of the most impressive fortifications in northern Portugal, and the multilayers of battlements and bastions encompass the entire historic centre. This historic centre is scenic and characterful, while outside of historic center a newer residential area was built, and where a lively outdoor market happens every Wednesday.
Valença offers an extensive fort complex to explore, a delightful historic centre and the chance to stroll across the river into Spain.
I’ll be more than happy to share my experience with you, after almost 23 years living in Portugal.
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