Mindelo (Vila do Conde)

Vila do Conde, Portugal

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Mindelo is a civil parish in the municipality of Vila do Conde, located along the coastal Green Coast of northern Portugal, about 21 kilometers northwest of Porto. It covers an area of 5.74 square kilometers and has a population of around 3,988 as of 2021.

Mindelo has a rich history dating back over a thousand years, with documents mentioning it as early as the 10th century. Its name likely evolved from ancient terms linked to a knight who settled in the area during early Portuguese history.

Historically, it was part of ecclesiastical and municipal reforms and played a role in the 1832 Liberal Wars. Geographically, Mindelo is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and neighboring parishes, featuring the Mindelo Ornithological Reserve, Portugal’s first protected coastal area that supports a diverse bird population and natural habitats.

The parish includes several small settlements and is connected to the Porto metropolitan area by road and a metro line, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical importance, and accessibility.