Valença

Valença is a toponym used in the Portuguese-speaking world, referring to several places in Portugal and Brazil. The most prominent Valença is Valença do Minho, a municipality in the Norte region of Portugal.

Valença do Minho is located in the district of Viana do Castelo, near the Minho border with Spain. It sits on the banks of the Minho River opposite the Spanish town of Tui. The historic center features a medieval fortress and well-preserved fortifications that guard the border crossing. The town’s economy has traditional roots in agriculture and cross-border trade, with tourism centered on its fortress, old town, and river views.

In Brazil, Valença is the name of several municipalities, including Valença in Bahia and Valença in Rio de Janeiro. Valença, Bahia, is a coastal municipality in the Northeast region. It has a historic center and markets, with an economy based on fishing, commerce, and local agriculture. Valença, Rio de Janeiro, is a municipality in the state of Rio de Janeiro, located inland in the southern part of the state, known for its rural settlements and regional production.

Etymology: The name Valença derives from a historical term used in Iberia, associated with fortifications or border towns, and remains common in Lusophone toponymy.