Moncao Attractions
The old fortified frontier town of Monçao, situated on the left bank of the River Minho (Spanish Miño) opposite the Spanish town of Salvatierra de Miño, is now a spa, with hot springs used for the treatment of rheumatism, skin and bronchial ailments. The local delicacies are salmon trout and lampretes (lampreys).
Townscape
The centerpoint of the town, still surrounded by its 17th C. walls, is the flower bedecked Praça Deu la Deu. The square is named after the local hero, Deu la Deu Martins, who distinguished himself in 1368 in the battle against the Castilians and whose monument graces the square. Around the square and the adjoining Largo do Loreto there are many attractive balconied houses. The northern end of the Largo do Loreta has a broad view over the river landscape of the Rio Minho. Above the town are the ruins of a medieval castle.
Townscape
The centerpoint of the town, still surrounded by its 17th C. walls, is the flower bedecked Praça Deu la Deu. The square is named after the local hero, Deu la Deu Martins, who distinguished himself in 1368 in the battle against the Castilians and whose monument graces the square. Around the square and the adjoining Largo do Loreto there are many attractive balconied houses. The northern end of the Largo do Loreta has a broad view over the river landscape of the Rio Minho. Above the town are the ruins of a medieval castle.
Festa do Corpo de Deus
Corpus Christi is celebrated in Monçao by traditional folk events.
Part of the celebrations include a re-enactment of the battle between St George and the Dragon.
Part of the celebrations include a re-enactment of the battle between St George and the Dragon.
Hours
Always opened on:
Corpus Christi - Christian (Jun 10)
Igreja Matriz
The original Romanesque parish church of Santa Maria dos Anjos (Holy Mary of the Angels), remodeled in the 16th C., has a fine Manueline main doorway. Inside is the tomb of Deu la Deu Martins among others, as well as rich talha dourada decoration, and azulejos in the choir. A Manueline side chapel dating from 1521 is also worth seeing.
Melgaco, Portugal
(Near Moncao)
The neighboring village of Melgaço has a 12th C. Romanesque parish church, and, above the village, a 12th C. castle.
Peso de Melgaço
About 24km/15mi east of Monçao is the health resort of Peso de Melgaço (alt. 180m/590ft), with mineral springs used in treating digestive and metabolic ailments.
