Britiande: Churches, History and the Caminho de Torres

Britiande lies near Lamego and combines a clear connection to a walking route with several historic buildings. Its proximity to the Douro Valley also provides access to the landscapes of the Lamego region. The Igreja de São Silvestre, the Capela de São Sebastião and the Pelourinho de Britiande are among the town’s distinct points of interest. When planning your trip, you can consider two interests separately: the course of a walk through the town, or the history of its churches, chapels and historic landmarks.

Walking the Caminho de Torres

The Caminho de Torres passes through Britiande on the section from Moimenta da Beira to Lamego. The route offers a specific point of reference for walkers planning a stretch between the two towns. If you are planning a stage, check the current route, as route descriptions may be revised.

Churches and local history

The Igreja de São Silvestre, the parish church of Britiande, has origins dating back at least to the mid-12th century. It is considered a fundamental symbolic landmark of the town and is classified as a Monument of Public Interest. Its origins date back considerably further than those of the Pelourinho de Britiande, built in 1550.

The Pelourinho de Britiande stands in a town square right next to the Capela de São Sebastião. Built in 1550, it is also classified as a Monument of Public Interest. The two neighbouring buildings offer different perspectives on local history: the Pelourinho is notable for its dated construction, while the chapel is distinguished by its combination of architectural styles and its floor plan. The Capela de São Sebastião brings together Mannerist and Rococo religious architecture. Its simple longitudinal floor plan comprises a nave and a narrower chancel. Style and floor plan describe different aspects of the chapel: Mannerism and Rococo refer to architectural movements, while nave and chancel describe its spatial layout.

Casa de Santo António de Britiande

Another historical point of interest is the Casa de Santo António de Britiande. It is believed to have been built in the last quarter of the 17th century as a country retreat for the monks of the Mosteiro de Ferreirim. Its private chapel was founded in 1680 and is decorated with 17th-century tile patterns. The two dates refer to different things: the last quarter of the 17th century refers to the presumed construction of the house, while 1680 is the date the chapel was founded. In 1990, the Casa was converted for rural tourism.

The facilities at the Casa de Santo António de Britiande include a garden, a swimming pool, a tennis court and bicycles. If any of these features is important for your trip, confirm its current availability before booking.

Discover more destinations: Valdigem

Go to the main travel overview: Lamego.