Mirandela

About

Bisected by the the Tua River, Mirandela's 200 meter, 16th century bridge harkens back to its early Roman occupation. The bridge grants access to the Old Town, and its collection of palaces, churches, and even a first-rate art museum. Much of this quarter was once ensconced in the town's 13th century castle, but after Portugal's victory over Spain at Aljubarrota in 1385, the structure was dismantled and quarried, leaving behind just a handful of fragments, such as the stone arch of the Porta de Santo António. The city's most distinguished building is perhaps the Baroque town hall, which was a family estate for centuries, until the family was accused of plotting regicide. While in town, be sure to sample their famous alheira sausages, which are made from beef to cater to the Jewish population after they were forced to convert to Christianity.