Sobral de São Miguel as a parish has an area of 22.37 km2 that comprises two distinct urban places. The village of Sobral de São Miguel, which is the most important nucleus, serving as the parish seat, and the place of Pereiro, which is 4.5 km away from the village and has 418 inhabitants (2011 Census). Its population density is 17.5 inhab/km².
The name of this village derives from the Latin Suberale which designates land where cork oaks grow. However, its name was not always Sobral de São Miguel, due to the fact that it belonged to Casegas until 1888, later becoming administratively independent. Sobral de São Miguel after the 27th of February 1970 by Decree-Law n.º 69/70 of the 27th of February. It has been part of the Schist Villages Network since 2010.
This area was, over time, a transit zone for the routes that linked the interior of the Peninsula to its coast. According to some historians, the mines and holes in the mountain area are a testament to the passage of Roman and Muslim peoples through these parts, where they sought the necessary tin for the equipment of their respective armies. Later it was developed with the activity of Minas da Panasqueira with the exploration of wolfram, one of the best metals of its kind in the world.
Known as the Heart of the Schist, its inhabitants keep the traditions very present, and this village is a true living Museum. Right at the foot of the Serra do Açor, this cluster of schist buildings is evident, ideal for walking tours and to enjoy unique experiences.
Patrimony
- Main church
- Santa Barbara Chapel
- Chapel of Our Lady of Good Voyage – Pereiro
- Mills and traditional houses
