North Portugal Tourism Guide - Lamego

Lamego Historic Sights

Lamego has long been an important centre and was already organised into a bishopric by the Visigoths in the 7th century. In 1143 Portugal's first parliament was convened here. At the far end of Avenida Visconde is the stunning baroque stairway comprising 696 steps that zig zag up to Igreja de Nossa Senhora dos Remedios - rather like Bom Jesus near Braga.

Other attractions in Lamego are the 12th century Igreja Santa Maria de Almacave, Lamego's oldest surviving building, the Lamego regional Museum, that houses paintings by 16th century painter Vasco Fernandez, Brussels tapestries from the same period and gilded 17th century chapels from the Convento das Chagas before it was lost, a pousada now stands on its site. There are also the remains of the 11th-13th century castle that was originally Moorish in origin at the top of Rua da Olaria - maintained today by the Boy Scouts. The town itself is a warren of old, steep winding lanes with traditional shops selling all manner of things from food to shoes.

The impressive Nossa Senhora dos Remedios church is the focal point for the town's biggest fiesta "Festa de Nossa Senhora dos Remedios" that runs from late August to mid-September. On the 8 September ox-drawn carts carry religious tableaux vivants through the streets before undertaking the tortuous pilgrimage ascending the steps on their knees!

Around Lamego

Just three kilometres outside the town at Balsemao is Portugal's oldest, and Europe's second oldest church, the 7th century Sao Pedro de Balsemao Chapel. This is a fantastic example of Visigothic architecture with Corinthian columns, round arches and intriguing symbols etched into the walls as well as the later additions like the Baroque south gate. Leaflets in English are available from the Portuguese guide usually in attendance.

Lamego is a good base for exploring other historic monuments in the countryside around such as Ponte de Uchana, Mosteiro de Salzedas and for the kids the Biological Park Serra das Meadas where you can get up close and personal with the wildlife including deer and wild boar and wander around the designated walks.