At the beginning of the 15th century, D. Afonso, 8th Count of Barcelos and future 1st Duke of Bragança, began the construction of a sophisticated urban fence in Barcelos. The Porta Nova Tower is the only one of the three main doors in the wall that still exists. In 1926, it was classified as a National Monument. After renovation between 2010 and 2013, the tower gained new cultural, educational and tourist functions, becoming one of the most visited heritage spaces in the region. In 2014, it received the first “Most Accessible Municipality” award in the Leisure/Heritage/Tourism category, by the National Institute for Rehabilitation (INR). The tower’s viewpoint offers a stunning view over the historic center of Barcelos, the Cávado river and Monte da Franqueira.