 The first prominent building erected during the area of Amarante was likely the "Albergaria do Covelo do Tâmega" sometime in the 12th century, by order of Queen D. Mafalda, wife of D. Afonso Henriques.These types of shelter were constructed in small settlements and were used by travellers, especially the poor who transited the territory.Permanent settles fixed themselves around the local churches, such as the Church of São Veríssimo and Church of Lufrei, resulting in growth during the intervening years.