Born of liberal reforms, in 1852, the Municipality of Nelas brought together the previous Municipalities of Senhorim (based in Vilar Seco) and Canas de Senhorim.
In the 152 years that followed, the Municipality of Nelas walked towards a growing affirmation, benefiting from a privileged geographical location, at the intersection of roads connecting to the coast and serra da Estrela, and the railway that allows connection to various points of the country. This geographical factor, combined with the dynamism of its people, made Nelas, throughout the twentieth century, become a focal point in the industry of the District of Viseu.
In them it was since time immemorial a crossing point between the coast and the interior and a path between the Serras do Caramulo and Serra da Estrela. The Roman roads crossed this territory, enhancing the fixation of populations and the development of a cultural identity. In the Middle Ages the boundaries of the territory were being defined between the Rivers Dão and Mondego and thus remain almost perfectly to this day.
The wine, produced here at least since roman times, is a reference mark of the region. the biggest promotion event of this product. In addition to the wine, the municipality also provides the cheese of the Serra, and a rich gastronomy, which can be enjoyed in the restaurants of the Municipality. Also olive oil, manufactured in a modern, functional and ecological lagar recently built is a reference in the economy and gastronomy of Nelas.
This region, located between Dão and Mondego, encased in the Serras da Estrela and Caramulo, has a rare beauty. Therefore, tourism in the municipality has enormous potential, either to enjoy an unparalleled natural landscape, or to enjoy the thermal richness of Caldas da Felgueira, or to visit and admire the architectural heritage, which includes manor houses and sunny houses, secular farms of dão wine production, testimonies of a rich historical past.
The ecotourism, rural tourism and housing, along with the archaeological itineraries and the termalism, are some ways to know and appreciate what the best the municipality has to offer to landscape, gastronomic and leisure levels, while knowing its history and evolution over time.
Finally, the industry. The result of an intelligent and pioneering industrialization policy, modern companies were installed in Nelas, which created jobs for the whole region and generated income that fostered the growth of trade and services.
It is undoubtedly a privileged place by nature due to its water, landscape and geological resources with main emphasis the secular Thermal Baths of Caldas da Felgueira whose therapeutic benefits are unique in the country.
Source: Nelas Town Hall