The history of the city dates back to the time of the Roman Empire, when the Romans discovered the potential of warm waters that naturally left the ground. Believing in their healing properties, they founded the city of Water Flaviaename attributed in honor of Emperor Tito Flávio Vespasiano, in the year 79 AD
Located in the north of Portugal, near the border with Spain, Chaves is a thermal city known for its warm waters and the Complex of Chaves Spa. Located in the Vila Real district, in the former province of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Chaves is composed of 39 parishes and attracts visitors not only for its thermal properties, but also for historical and cultural richness.
The Past of the City
Archaeological traces confirm the human occupation of the region since the paleolithic, but it was with the Roman legions that the city gained importance. He writes what they built infrastructures, such as the Trajan Bridge and established medicinal spa, whose ruins were discovered by chance during works of the City Council. Experts consider them the greatest Roman spa of the Iberian Peninsula.
In the third century, the city faced invasions of Suevos, Visigoths and Alans, coming from Eastern Europe, ending the Roman rule in the region. Subsequently, in the eighth century, the Moors invaded keys, beating Rodrigo, the last Visigodo monarch. These religious and military disputes led the population to take refuge in the mountains.
Christian Reconquest and Fortifications
The Christian reconquest of the city began in the ninth century, with the king of Leo, D. Afonso, partially recovering keys. Only in the 11th century, under D. Afonso III of Leão, the city was definitely rescued and rebuilt, with walls that reinforced the border defense of the kingdom.
In 1160, Chaves was integrated into the kingdom of Portugal, with the help of Ruy and Garcia Lopes. During the reign of D. Dinis, the castle and new walls were built. The first charter of the city was attributed by D. Afonso III in 1258, and later confirmed by D. Manuel I in 1514. The rise to the city category occurred in 1929.
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Ponte de Trajano: A Roman symbol
Among the most emblematic attractions is the Trajan Bridge, built between the I and II DC 150 meters in length over the Tâmega River. This bridge has twelve visible arches and inscriptions that invoke Roman emperors, such as Trajan and Vespasian.
The Chaves Castle, which remains the Mening Tower and part of the wall, was built by D. Dinis to reinforce the city’s defense. Today the space has the Military Museum since 1978, allowing to know the evolution of the fortress, which goes back to an old Roman building.
The Mother Church of Santa Maria Maior
Another important milestone is the Mother Church of Chaves, built in the twelfth century and known as the Church of Santa Maria Maior. With a Renaissance trait abroad, the temple keeps elements of the Romanesque style in the bell tower and the portico.
The 17th century Mercy Church is another highlight, with its painted wooden ceiling and altar decorated with golden carving. Located in Camões Square, this zone also houses the Building of the Paços do Conelo and Paço dos Dukes de Bragança, which currently hosts the Flaviense Museum.
The Free River Monforte Castle
A few kilometers from the city is the Castle of Monforte do Rio Livre, a former prehistoric castro transformed into medieval fortress. Modernized during the War of Restoration, it still retains defensive structures adapted to artillery.
For those visiting keys, the Vidago Park is another mandatory stop. Although not a guest of the Vidago Palace Hotel, it is possible to walk through its gardens and enjoy botanical diversity until 19h.
The ‘mystery’ near Chaves
Finally, the curious Bolithira Pedra, in Serra do Brunheiro, 18 kilometers from the city, is one of the natural puzzles of the region. It is a granite block with several tons that can be moved by anyone.
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