within the Santa Luzia Mountains, and crosses the parish (and village), while the Ribeira de Afife (and its three affluents: the Ribeira da Pedreira, Ribeira de Agrichousa and Ribeira do Fojo) complement the water sources. The beaches of Afife are isolated by a large curtain of dunes, whose growth have recently necessitated measure to limit desertification. On its banks is located on the Convent of Cabanas, founded in the 10th century, is the most important Monument of the parish. Economy Historically, Afife was a place known for fish captures and, for a time, whaling. One of the few economic industries along the coast was the collection of seaweed, an industry controlled by a rigorous agreement between the participants. A job handled by women, the seaweed was transported to the dunes after collection, dried and then sold from large mounds to farmers. The fertile lands, which have supported the majority of its citizens throughout the centuries, have been supported by several small parcels. Tourism, small industry and commerce are the primary industries in the region. Initially based on primary sector industries, the economy in this parish has benefited from its location along the Atlantic Ocean, and, over the last few decades, reoriented its economy. After the 18th century, decorative gesso became an important contribution to the local economy, supported by professional programs to teach the skill. Culture Traditional festivals in the parish include: the festival of São João (held on 24 June); Santo António (13 June); and Nossa Senhora da Lapa (between 12 and 14 July). Gastronomically, the parish is known for , , and . The main socio-cultural organizations include the Casino Afifense, ADA – Associação Desportiva Afifense, NAIAA – Núcleo Amador de Investigação Arqueológica de Afife, Ronda da Costa Verde and Grupo de Danças e Cantares de Afife, APCA – Associação de Protecção e Conservação do Ambiente. The British watercolour painter Susanna Roope Dockery, who lived in Porto had a small cottage in Afife, which she used as a base for trips to paint rural scenes. References External links Afife Digital Blogspot Freguesias of Viana do Castelo