The Parish Church of Valega is a Baroque-style church characterized by Portuguese tile mosaics depicting religious scenes on the facade, although the tiles often portray blue floral motifs. Inside, the Ançã stone baptistery, dating from the early 16th century, and the main altar, dating from the 18th century, are highlights.
Perched atop the mountain surrounding Viana do Castelo is the “Santuário do Sagrado Coração de Jesus” (Sanctuary of Jesus). Visible from kilometers away, as if welcoming those entering the city, this shrine honors the “Princess of Lima”.
The Jerónimos Monastery is a National Monument and was classified a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. King Manuel I built a large monastery near the location where the Infante D. Henrique ordered a church to be built in the mid-15th century by invocation of St. Mary of Belém. A notable work of architecture, it became part of Portuguese identity and culture.
