Vila Real

The region shows traces of habitation from the paleolithic era, while the settlement of Panóias had a Roman presence. Vila Real was founded in 1289 by King Denis of Portugal, hence its name, meaning Royal Town. It housed more members of the royal family during the Middle Ages than any other settlement in Portugal except the capital in Lisbon, and family Coats of Arms remain above old houses, some of which still occupied by those families. Vineyards were introduced to the municipality in 1764, growing red, white and rosé wines for export. The Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), the main airport serving the northern region, is 100 km away and is accessible by motorway A4. The city bus system in Vila Real is run by Urbanos Vila Real; there are 5 lines. Praça Pioledo in the city centre has a set of bars around....