History
The hydroelectric power station was built in 1922 by a Luso-Castilian consortium, making it one of the earliest significant hydroelectric projects in Portugal. It harnessed the energy of a nearby river to generate electricity for various surrounding towns, supporting both public and private sectors.
The plant’s construction led to the development of a small community, providing housing for workers and establishing social and cultural facilities, including a holiday camp and a chapel. The plant was once one of the largest employers in the region and which emerged at a time of coal crisis due to World War I. Between 1948 and 1957, as operations expanded, additional housing was built to accommodate workers and their families.
The facility remained in operation for several decades before eventually being replaced by a larger dam. In 2022, its centenary was commemorated with a photographic exhibition and a brochure detailing its 100-year history.
