Vila Nova de Monsarros: River Valley and Church Art

Vila Nova de Monsarros lies on the foothills of the Serra do Buçaco. The Rio da Serra, also known as the Angarna, flows through the valley where Vila Nova de Monsarros was established. The landscape and cultural heritage go hand in hand here for visitors. The religious buildings and their furnishings span several centuries; at the same time, the park and irrigation system show the role played by the river and water in the surrounding area.

River, Park, and Irrigation

The completed Parque Ecológico of Vila Nova de Monsarros is located on the Rio da Serra near the town centre. A watermill is integrated into the park. As a point of reference for your visit, the park complements the religious buildings with its connection to the river and mill. So, alongside the churches, the town description includes a specific place by the water.

The traditional irrigation system of Vila Nova de Monsarros’ fertile plain is still in use today. The channels are called Levadas; however, they have almost entirely been replaced by half-pipes laid on cement. Water flows through these half-pipes to agricultural land. Their function and construction can be distinguished: the irrigation system is still in use, even though the way water is carried has changed considerably. This contrast makes the Levadas an informative topic, especially if you are interested in agriculture and the use of water.

Churches and Their Furnishings

The present-day Igreja Matriz of Vila Nova de Monsarros dates from the second half of the 18th century. It contains limestone sculptures from a workshop in Coimbra dating from the 15th century, as well as a baptismal font classified as Early Gothic and dating from the early 16th century. To understand the chronology, it is worth distinguishing the building from its furnishings: the present-day church is newer than both of the works of art mentioned here. Thus, one building brings together objects from earlier centuries and a later construction date.

The Capela de Nossa Senhora das Neves dates from the mid-17th century and stands on a small hill in the town centre. Its altars feature Early Baroque carvings. As well as the building’s date, the design of its altars is another characteristic of the chapel. Chronologically, its construction falls between the older works of art in the Igreja Matriz and the construction of the present-day Igreja Matriz. Together, the two religious buildings offer different points of reference for distinguishing their construction dates, styles, and furnishings.

Practical Planning

The weekly AnadiaSIM bus departs from Vila Nova de Monsarros on Wednesdays. Check the current timetable before travelling, as schedules may change. The planned Rota de Algeriz is one of the six routes in the municipal “Anadia Walking Trails” network. If you would like to include this route in your travel plans, check its current status and trail conditions before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Travanca, Eixo, Pedorido, Murtosa, Canedo, Oiã, Nogueira do Cravo, Monte.

For the main travel overview: Aveiro.