Tâmega

Tâmega is a river that flows through Portugal and Spain. It is a tributary of the Douro River. The Tâmega's source is in the Sierra de San Mamede in Extremadura, Spain. It flows southwest for approximately 145 kilometers before entering Portugal. Within Portugal, the river continues its southwestern course, passing through the municipalities of Chaves, Vila Pouca de Aguiar, and Amarante. Finally, it joins the Douro River near Entre-os-Rios, a parish in the municipality of Arruada.

The Tâmega basin is characterized by a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The river's flow is influenced by rainfall, with higher volumes typically occurring during the autumn and winter months. Historically, the Tâmega has played a significant role in the region's development. Its waters have been used for agriculture, particularly irrigation, and for generating hydroelectric power.

Along its course, the Tâmega passes through varied landscapes, from mountainous regions in its upper reaches to more fertile plains as it approaches its confluence with the Douro. The river is also of ecological importance, supporting diverse flora and fauna. Several towns and cities have developed on its banks, benefiting from its resources and strategic location. The river's name is believed to derive from the Latin word "Tamega."