Lamego, Portugal: 7 Best Things to Do and See

If you’re heading to the Douro River wine region, you should definitely stop in Lamego. This city is the seat of a diocese – the only one in Portugal – but what will probably impress you most is the pilgrimage site – the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios in Lamego – which stands on Santo Estêvão hill and is accessible by a magnificent staircase, whose construction began in 1777 and was only completed in the 20th century. In this guide I will share with you Lamego, Portugal: 7 Best Things to Do and See.

If, unlike us, you eat meat, you’ll also appreciate the local gastronomy. Throughout Portugal, Lamego is renowned for its cured ham and a dish consisting of roasted kid goat, served with rice. We, at least, appreciated the excellent red wine, which you can find everywhere (and Port wine too).

This city is also known for allegedly being the site of the legendary “Cortes de Lamego,” where D. Afonso Henriques was supposedly proclaimed King of Portugal and the “Rules of Succession to the Throne” were established.

Let’s now take a look at what to do and see in Lamego.

Lamego, Portugal: 7 Best Things to Do and See

We can recommend two accommodations: the hotel O Cantinho do Colégio – Dourocollege or the more luxurious option Lamego Hotel & Life.

History of Lamego

In ancient times, Ligurian and Turdetanian tribes lived here, which, after merging with the Iberians, formed the Lusitanians. According to archaeological findings, this area was inhabited by the Coilarnos tribe during Roman times.

Lamego Castle, accessible only from the west, was likely originally a Celtic fortress. 13th-century Afonsine records mention “Castro de Lameco” as a synonym for the medieval fortification. When the Romans destroyed the fortress, the inhabitants descended into the valley, where they engaged in agriculture under the influence of Roman civilization.

Lamego became a Christian city during the reign of the Visigothic king Recared I, who converted to Christianity. In 570, Sardinário was recorded as Bishop of Lamego at the Council of Lugo. During the reign of the Visigothic king Sisebut, from 612 to 621, coins were minted here, which testifies to the city’s importance from a commercial and cultural perspective.

Periods of peace and war followed, with the city alternating between Christian and Arab rule, until King Fernando Magno definitively conquered it on November 29, 1057 . After some time, the city lost its bishopric status, which was only restored in 1071. At the beginning of Portuguese independence, Egas Moniz, the tutor of the first Portuguese king, who administered the territory between the Paiva and Távora rivers, had control over Lamego.

Lamego grew around two main points – the cathedral and the castle. In 1290, King Dinis granted the city the right to hold a market, where merchants from Castile and Granada came to sell spices and oriental fabrics.

Lamego: Sights and other Attractions to See in the City

The city is famous for its religious monuments, especially the Sé Cathedral, the Church of St. Peter of Balsemão, and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies (Nossa Senhora dos Remédios), which is the site of an annual pilgrimage culminating on September 8th, the city’s holiday. Let’s take a look at everything there is to see in Lamego.

Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora Dos Remédios

The symbol of the entire city is the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios in Lamego, which is an important pilgrimage site and stands on Santo Estêvão hill. It is accessible by a magnificent staircase, whose construction began in 1777 and was only completed in the 20th century.

The most remarkable place is “Pátio dos Reis,” adorned with a 22-meter high fountain and an obelisk with Marian symbols. The staircase is surrounded by Santo Estêvão Park.

The sanctuary itself was built in 1750 on the site of an old chapel dedicated to St. Stephen. The Baroque decoration of the sanctuary is truly magnificent. Dominating the structure are two white towers, which were completed only at the beginning of the 20th century and stand as guardians over the city.

In addition to its architectural beauty, the sanctuary is known for its annual pilgrimage in honor of Our Lady of Remedies, which takes place on September 8th, when believers from all over the country gather here.

Sé Catedral De Lamego

This cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Sebastian, originated on the foundations of a 12th-century chapel and became one of the most important religious sites in the region. Its original Romanesque tower, standing on the south side of the facade, recalls the first construction from 1159. Over the centuries, the cathedral underwent many modifications, gradually adding Gothic, Manueline, and Baroque elements, resulting in a unique blend of styles that captivates visitors with its majesty.

Next to the cathedral is the former Bishop’s Palace, now home to the Lamego Museum, where artistic treasures are preserved, including works by the famous painter Grão Vasco.

Lamego Castle

Above the city, you’ll find the local castle, which was probably built on the site of an old Lusitanian oppidum, later fortified by the Romans. Around the castle, you’ll find defensive walls with two main gates – the northern gate Porta dos Figos (also known as Porta da Vila) and the southern gate Porta do Sol.

Don’t forget to climb the Torre de Menagem tower, from where you’ll have a beautiful view of the Varosa, Coura, and Balsemão rivers, as well as the vineyards of the Douro Valley and the surrounding landscapes of Trás-os-Montes and Montemuro.

Casa Das Brolhas

Casa das Brolhas, built in 1771, is one of the most magnificent noble residences in Lamego. At first glance, it captivates with its ornate facade featuring carefully carved granite ornaments. Its dominant features are an impressive gate and a magnificent family coat of arms, divided into five sections, displaying the heraldic symbols of the Osório, Menezes (Marquises of Marialva), and Castro families. This house has been a protected cultural monument since 1975, testifying to the wealth and influence that the aristocracy held in the Lamego region in the 18th century.

Casa das Brolhas belonged to prominent figures associated with the old Portuguese nobility, such as Macário de Castro da Fonseca e Sousa, who distinguished himself as an important member of parliament in the early days of the constitutional regime and a deserving patron of Lamego. His grandson, Macário de Castro da Fonseca e Sousa Pereira Coutinho, was also an influential figure. Among his ancestors is Manuel Pinto da Fonseca, who became Grand Master of the Order of Malta.

Museo De Lamego

Whether it’s raining or you want to enjoy something a little different than just walks around the city and vineyards, then head to the local museum, which you’ll find in a magnificent historic building, the former Bishop’s Palace.

In the museum, you’ll find collections ranging from Gothic to Baroque, among the greatest treasures are tapestries depicting battles between Christians and Moors. It also includes a collection of azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles) and magnificent goldsmith work.

Bairro Da Ponte Neighborhood

The Bairro da Ponte neighborhood in Lamego has undergone a beautiful transformation in recent years! This historic part of the city now offers a new riverside zone with absolutely stunning views of the Balsemão River.

The transformation aimed to attract both tourists and locals, and now there are plenty of places to relax. From spring and summer, everyone will be able to sit at a bar on the terrace, enjoy a picnic in the new picnic zone, or have fun with children on the playground. A sports field has even been added.

Wine Tastings

Do you love red wine and Port wine as much as we do? We definitely recommend checking out organized wine tastings, which you can find on GetYourGuide. Probably the best is the option with a boat trip on the Douro River – an unforgettable experience!

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