Monuments

Between 1401 and 1461, D. Afonso, the eighth Count of Barcelos and the first Duke of Bragança, ordered walls to be built around Barcelos, with three towers marking the entrances to the city. The Porta do Cimo da Vila was the only gate that was to withstand the ravages of time and urban reconstruction. In the 16th century, a Renaissance top and battlements were added to the gate, and its name was changed to Torre da Porta Nova (Newgate Tower).

In view of its great sturdiness, with one of its walls measuring as much as 2 metres thick, it became the prison tower from the end of the 16th century onwards. This remained the case until well into the 20th century when it was finally given another function and converted into the local Tourist Information Centre.

Recent renovation works (2010-2013) have added new features such as an area for culture, education and tourism, and it has become one of the most visited places in the region. In 2014, this property received the "Most Accessible Municipality” first prize, in the category of Leisure/Heritage/Tourism.

No visit to this area would be complete without a trip to its magnificent viewpoint, with its stunning panoramic view over the historic centre, the Cavado river and Monte de Franqueia.