The municipality of Vila Real comprises of 20 parishes, and, although the city has an urban particularity, the rest of the County maintains its rural well marked features. The two types of prevailing landscapes: the mountainous area of Serra do Marão and Alvão, separated by the fertile green lands of Vale da Campeã, and, to the South, already close to the Douro, the steps of vineyards. All over, there are water lines supplying the area of the County, highlighting the Corgo River, which runs through the city in a small but deep valley, creating an exceptional landscape beauty. It is on the banks of this river, one of the tributaries of the Douro that the town of Vila Real rises to approximately 450 meters in altitude, in a region which shows evidence of having been inhabited since the Palaeolithic times.
The first Treaty of "Constantine Panóias" was awarded in 1096 by Conde Dom Henrique, but is in 1289, with the treaty of Dom Dinis (being the first granted by this monarch to Vila Real) which is founded as "Vila Real de Panóias", which would later transform the city as it is currently. Its importance in the 17th and 18th centuries was such, that it was called the 'Corte of Trás-os-Montes”, being a fact, as it is currently visible the coat of arms inscribed in the various houses, proving the nobility of their owners, who settled under the influence of the House of the Marqueses of Vila Real. Later is conferred to Vila Real the status as Capital of Province and, in the 20th century, in the 20’s decade, was recognized by its demographic and economic responsibility, two administrative acts of great importance: the creation of the Diocese on 20 April 1922 and the elevation as a City on 20 July 1925.
Currently, Vila Real is going through a stage of growing development, at an industrial, commercial and services level, with emphasis on health, education, tourism, presenting itself as a strong attraction for investment. Also externally, Vila Real has developed connections and important projects, for example in areas such as education and tourism, particularly in the context of agreements of linking with cities like Osnabruck, Orense, Mende and Grasse.
Accept the invitation of the poet: "Between who is ...!" come check that "Into Marão, know that here all are well received!"
Location: Vila Real
