The parish church of Touguinha stands on elevated ground in the centre of the parish, on a small hill where Roman roof tiles have been found. Its location links the village landscape with archaeological traces from a much earlier period. In Touguinha, written records, former ecclesiastical institutions, archaeological finds and a festival celebrated in June offer different ways to explore the history of the area. If you are choosing a destination, this focus may appeal if you are interested in church history and archaeology.

The church and the written history of the area

The parish of Touguinha is recorded in the 11th-century Censual under the title “De Sancta Maria de Tauguina”, in the Terra de Faria. Nossa Senhora da Esperança de Touguinha is mentioned in the oldest known document, dating from 1238. Also in 1238, King D. Sancho donated the churches of Ponte de Lima and Touguinha to the Archbishop of Braga. These details go beyond a single mention of the name: they concern both the parish and its designation, as well as a donation that names two churches. A brotherhood of clergy also once existed at the church in Touguinha.

Archaeological evidence and its dating

At the beginning of the 20th century, two vessels with broad horizontal rims were found while a road to the church was being built. They point to the presence of a Bronze Age necropolis in Touguinha. Roman roof tiles were found on the church hill. These finds point to different periods: the vessels suggest a Bronze Age dating, while the roof tiles are attributed to the Roman period. The vessels themselves, however, were discovered at the beginning of the 20th century. Distinguishing between the presumed date of origin and the history of the finds helps place the archaeological traces in context.

Church history, Pena and the June festival

Touguinha parish formerly had two chapels: Santa Cristina in the settlement of Pena and another in the settlement of Capela. Augusto Soromenho was born in Pena. In Pena, near the border with the Freguesia de Touguinhó, two manor houses also stand on a prominent rise that clearly stands out from the surrounding area. In this way, Pena brings together former ecclesiastical connections, a biographical link and a distinctive architectural feature.

Santo António do Monte is a festival and pilgrimage in Touguinha, held in June. Unlike the area’s long-standing historical connections, this event has a clear seasonal focus. If you would like to plan your trip around it, check the specific event date in advance.

Plan your journey

Igreja de Touguinha stop is a useful landmark for planning your journey. Bus route 3516 between Parada and Vila do Conde (Escolas), via Lamelas, is listed for this stop. It is described as one of the stops closest to the Freguesia de Touguinha, with a stated walking time of two minutes. The route information was last updated on 22 August 2026. Check the connection again before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Macieira da Maia, Mosteiró, Labruge, Vilar, Vilar do Pinheiro, Gião, Guilhabreu, Árvore.

For the broader travel overview: Vila Do Conde.