The Fortress of Valença

The Fortress of Valença is an exceptional universal value for the unique beauty of space, for the greatness of its walls and other monuments, result of the creative capacity of Man, for memories of struggles, complicity, exchanges of goods, cultures and peoples’s throughout the centuries. The inclusion in the UNESCO List reinforces the guarantee of preservation as a unique and invaluable asset for present and future human generations. Begin with the Patrol Path and discover the 5kms of wall, history, achievements and memories. Get to know the various military buildings that still exist, as well as the religious temples of different symmetries. And do not miss the best views of the fortress, from the Socorro bulwark (situated in the far north, has the best view over Tui, the International Bridge, the Minho river and the agricultural fields), the Carmo bulwark (in the northwest of the fortress , In a position overlooking the Minho river) and the Santa Ana bulwark (on the south side of the Coroada, it is the place that allows us to have the largest panoramic view of the two walled enclosures that constitute the fortress of Valença). The typical lively streets are filled with traditional commerce, services and a varied range of food and accommodation establishments, which is said to be the largest Portuguese outdoor shopping mall.