Freixo de Espada à Cinta

Perched above the deep valley of the Douro, close to the Spanish border, Freixo de Espada à Cinta is a small town of steep streets, old churches and almond trees. Its dramatic river landscapes and its history of silk-making make it one of the most authentic corners of the north-east.

History and identity

Its curious name — “Ash Tree of the Sword and Ribbon” — comes from an old legend of a nobleman who hung his sword and ribbon from an ash tree by the town wall. For centuries the town was known for its silk, produced in the region since the Middle Ages, and for its position guarding the Douro crossings.

What to see and do

• The historic centre, with its churches and old streets.
• The Douro viewpoints, over the river and the cliffs.
• The almond groves in bloom in early spring.
• The river landscapes along the Douro valley.

Gastronomy and traditions

Freixo is known for its almonds, its olive oil and the wines of the Douro, served with the robust cooking of the border country. Its festivals keep the traditions of the Trás-os-Montes plateau.

Nearby

The town overlooks the Parque Natural do Douro Internacional, one of the wildest river landscapes in Portugal.

Visiting Freixo de Espada à Cinta

Freixo de Espada à Cinta is in the north-east of Portugal, above the Douro, reached by road. Access to the town is free; for local services, check with the municipality before your visit.

Visitor information: cm-fec.pt.

Image credit: Freixo de Espada à Cinta, Portugal, by Carlos Cunha, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.