Aldeia Velha do Juriz, located near Pitões das Júnias, in the municipality of Montalegre, is a true hidden treasure in the Peneda-Gerês National Park. This place, which seems to have come out of a fairy tale, combines history, nature and mystery, making it an unmissable destination for those passionate about culture and natural landscapes. Identified as the ancient Sancti Vincencii de Gerez in the Afonsine Inquiries of 1258, it was inhabited from the Middle Ages until the beginning of the Modern Age. Among the still visible remains of this village, which is abandoned, are around 40 stone houses, paved streets and metal slag that testify to significant metallurgical activity in the past, according to our source, the .
Surrounded by a dense oak forest and watercourses, the abandoned village of Juriz presents a magical atmosphere that transports visitors to ancient times. The houses, built in rudimentary form of granite, have a quadrangular plan and preserve part of their original layout, although the walls are, on average, just over one meter high.
The streets, carefully organized, reflect the typical organization of the time. One of the most fascinating remains is the old chapel dedicated to Saint Vincent, partially destroyed by a fire, but still bearing signs of its sacred character.
Among the most intriguing finds are traces of slag, byproducts of metal collections, which demonstrate advanced metallurgy techniques. There are those who argue that this village, which is abandoned, may have Roman origins, given the history of mining in the Barroso region, active until the 20th century. However, this theory lacks more robust archaeological evidence, according to , cited by .
The reason for the abandonment of Aldeia Velha do Juriz remains a mystery. Hypotheses include epidemics, economic crises, migrations or even conflicts. The absence of detailed documentation makes it difficult to find a definitive answer, keeping the enigma open.
The visit begins with the Aldeia Velha do Juriz Trail a pedestrian route of around 6 km (round trip), which is part of the Pitões das Júnias cemetery. This trail, well signposted and of easy difficulty, takes visitors to explore the rural landscape in around 2 hours. Upon arriving at the site, it is possible to walk through the ruins, rest and absorb the tranquility of this historic environment.
To enrich the experience, also explore the village of Pitões das Júnias, famous for its rural Trás-os-Montes architecture, with community ovens, corrals and picturesque streets that preserve local traditions. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Pitões das Júnias Waterfall, one of the most beautiful in the National Park, and the historic Santa Maria das Júnias Monastery, surrounded by a stunning landscape.
Aldeia Velha do Juriz is much more than a simple tourist destination. It is a place where the past comes to life, surrounded by the natural beauty of Gerês. Perfect for those looking for a peaceful experience, away from the hustle and bustle of cities, this place is a rare gem that deserves to be discovered. Let yourself be enchanted by the medieval rusticity and serenity of the surrounding nature.
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