Santa Maria da Feira

Santa Maria da Feira is a municipality in Aveiro District in northern Portugal, encompassing 21 civil parishes spread between Porto and Aveiro districts. The territory spans a varied landscape with multiple settlement centers and forms an important local commercial hub.

The settlement received its charter from King Manuel I in 1514, establishing it as a formally recognized administrative territory with defined boundaries. This charter marked a turning point that structured local governance and integrated the region into royal administrative organization.

The Viagem Medieval festival transforms the city center each summer with period reenactments, traditional crafts, and regional gastronomy demonstrations. Visitors can watch local artisans at work and taste typical dishes that form part of the community's identity.

The municipality has direct transport connections to Porto, located about 23 kilometers to the north, through regular bus services and regional train lines. Visitors can travel easily by car or public transport while exploring the varied landscape of the area.

The region leads Portuguese cork production, with major processing facilities and research centers developing sustainable manufacturing methods. This industry has deep historical roots and continues to shape the local economy and craft knowledge of the community.

Location: Aveiro

Location: Metropolitan Area of Porto

Inception: January 1, 1514

Shares border with: Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Gondomar, Arouca, Oliveira de Azeméis, Ovar, São João da Madeira

Email: santamariadafeira@cm-feira.pt

Website: https://cm-feira.pt

GPS coordinates: 40.93333,-8.53333

Latest update: December 14, 2025 19:02