Canas De Senhorim: History, Archaeology and Tradition

Canas de Senhorim brings together historic buildings, archaeological evidence and festive traditions. When planning a hotel stay in Canas de Senhorim, you can first decide whether to focus on churches and manor houses, prehistoric sites or attending a festival. The themes range from medieval legal documents to traditional textile crafts.

Historic Buildings and Local History

In April 1196, Canas de Senhorim received a charter (foral) from D. Sancho I. In March 1514, D. Manuel I confirmed it with a second charter. The two dates mark milestones in the town’s history during the Middle Ages and the early modern period.

Its religious heritage includes the 18th-century Igreja Matriz de São Salvador, the 16th-century Capela de Nossa Senhora da Piedade and the 17th-century Capela de São Sebastião. Anyone interested in architectural history can explore examples spanning several centuries.

The historic estates also differ in their features. The Solar da Família Abreu Madeira includes the Capela da Nossa Senhora da Conceição and a tower in the manor-house style. The Solar do Visconde de Pedralva is surrounded by a garden with hundred-year-old trees. The Casa do Cruzeiro is distinguished by its intricately designed balcony balustrade and its artistic architectural character.

Archaeological Evidence and Getting Around

Canas de Senhorim is one of three localities in the municipality of Nelas where the most significant Roman archaeological remains are concentrated. The prehistoric focus of the Circuito Pré-Histórico is a separate theme. Its four megalithic monuments include the Orca das Pramelas in Canas de Senhorim. This brings together a regional archaeological context and a specifically named megalithic monument in the town.

A visitor information notice from the municipality dated 2 October 2018 describes road signs at the sites along the Circuito Pré-Histórico, as well as information panels about excavations, dating and archaeological finds. According to the same notice, the sites are accessible by car; the Orca do Folhadal requires a short walk. As the information about signs and access dates from 2018, check the directions and access conditions locally.

Carnival, Medieval Fair and Crafts

The Carnival of Canas de Senhorim developed out of the historic social differences between the Paço and Rossio neighbourhoods. According to local history, it has been celebrated regularly for more than 400 years. The tradition thus connects the history of the two neighbourhoods with a long-standing festive culture.

The Feira Medieval de Canas de Senhorim began in 1993 and reenacts historical moments from the Middle Ages. It includes a market featuring handicrafts, regional and convent sweets, agricultural products, traditional drinks and traditional dishes. What individual vendors offer may vary from one edition to another. If you would like to plan your trip around visiting the market, check the dates of the relevant edition.

Textile crafts are also part of the local culture: female artisans create traditional dolls, educational games and other original textile pieces. Together with the historic buildings and festive traditions, these offer a range of ways to explore Canas de Senhorim during your stay.

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