Happy TravellerWelcome to Póvoa de Santa Iria, a beautiful city located in the municipality of Vila Franca de Xira, Portugal. This former civil parish has a rich history dating back to the 14th century when it was designated part of the Póvoa Majorat. Today, Póvoa de Santa Iria is a bustling commuter town with a population of 29,348 as of 2011. Let’s explore what this city has to offer!
History:
Originally named Póvoa de São Martinho, the town was renamed Póvoa de Santa Iria after the extinction of majorats in Portugal in 1863. For centuries, the town had a strong connection with the Tagus river, with fishing, salt extraction, and river transport as its main activities. The town was officially designated a city in 1999, following its sharp population increase in the second half of the 20th century. In 2013, the civil parish of Póvoa de Santa Iria was merged with the neighboring civil parish of Forte da Casa.
Transportation:
Póvoa de Santa Iria is well-connected by train and bus. The Póvoa train station, which is part of the North Line, connects the city with Lisbon. However, the train station was the site of a train accident in 1986 that killed 17 people, one of the worst in the history of Portugal. The city is also served by multiple bus lines from Rodoviária de Lisboa, connecting with other points in the municipalities of Vila Franca de Xira, Loures, and Lisbon.
Sports:
If you’re a sports fan, don’t miss the opportunity to watch a game of União Atlético Povoense, the local football club that competes in the First Division of the Lisbon Football Association.
Overall, Póvoa de Santa Iria is a charming city that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Portugal. Whether you’re here for the history, the food, or the sports, you’re sure to have a great time in this beautiful city.
