| CHAVES |
Over the centuries, Chaves (meaning
'keys') has been fought over by the Romans, the French during
the Peninsular War, and repeated Spanish invaders. Thermal springs
and nearby gold deposits encouraged the Romans to establish
an important stronghold here in AD 78. Located in the centre
of Portugal's spectacular Trás-os-Montes region, Chaves today is a lively
market town famous for its spa, historic centre and tasty presuntos
(smoked hams).
What to see: The 14th-century keep of Chaves castle overlooks
the town's medieval square - Praça de Camões.
Within the castle keep is a small military museum where suits
of armour, uniforms and other regalia are on display. On the
south side stands the parish church with its fine Romanesque
portal. The Baroque Misericordia church opposite has an exquisite
interior lined with 18th-century azulejo glazed tiles. A few
minutes on foot from the city centre is one of the hottest springs
in Europe. Water here bubbles up at a temperature of 73ºC
(163º F). The spa's facilities attract both tourists and
people seeking the treatment of rheumatism, kidney disfuntion
and hypertension.
Nearby: The 16-arch Roman bridge across the Tâmega
River was completed around 100 AD, at the time of the Emperor
Trajan. Close to the village of Soutelo, 4 km north-west of
Chaves, is a huge stone known as Outeiro Machado. Measuring
50 metres in length, it is covered in symbols and other strange
markings. A second large boulder can be seen at Bolideira 16
km east. The spa town of Vidago 17 km south-west of Chaves is
well-known for its therapeutic water |
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| © 2007 Maisturismo |
