Midões (Tábua)


Midões is a historic Portuguese village and civil parish in Tábua, Coimbra. It covers an area of approximately 19.98 km ² and was recorded as having a population of 1,725, in 2011 with a population density of 86.3 inhabitants/km2.
It is situated close to a number of rivers, including Cavalos river, the Sea river and the Mondego river.

History

Midões played a pivotal historical role and backdrop for the legendary tales of :pt:João Brandão|João Brandão and the civil struggles of the Beira area at the time. The village was also home to a number of important and stately figures, including the Viscount of Vinhal, :pt:Roque Ribeiro de Abranches Castelo Branco|Roque Ribeiro de Abranches Castelo-Branco and later his son, Dr. César Ribeiro de Abranches Castelo-Branco, the latter who commissioned the iconic Palácio de Midões.
Midões was the stronghold for many years and held the central seat of Coimbra from 1514 until 1853 until the council was deassembled and relocated to the newer neighbouring parish of Tabua.
Additional parishes were also later added in the early nineteenth century which included Candosa, Covasand and Vila Nova de Oliveirinha.

Heritage

Midões is a village full of history dating back to Roman times as evidenced by the many Roman ruins and graves left from early settlers as well as many stately homes that were left behind by the noble families that lived there when the central seat of Coimbra was moved to Tabua. A number of these manor houses, the town palace and historical landmarks can still be seen in Midões today and include:
Midões is also home to a number of historic churches, including: