The mayor of Guarda, Sérgio Costa, confirmed that some traces have been discovered which appear to be from graves hundreds of years old. He considers the appearance of archaeological remains to be “normal” in that area, close to the historic site of Póvoa do Mileu, where a Roman settlement once existed, and for this reason, the work has been carried out with “extra care” and is being continuously monitored by an archaeologist.

The remains were detected in Rua Vila de Manteigas, one of the roads in the vicinity of the Mileu Chapel. Sérgio Costa has assured that evaluations are being conducted with the support of the Centre’s Regional Coordination (CCDRC) in order to find the best solution to safeguard the discovery.

The mayor recognises that the situation affects the work that was underway there, but stresses that it is a question of heritage that must be preserved. “It is important to detect it, carry out the necessary surveys, and take the necessary measures to learn about our history”, Sérgio Costa pointed out.

In accordance with the information provided by the Guarda Museum, the historical site of Póvoa do Mileu has important remains of buildings from the Roman period. The complex includes the Romanesque chapel and the Mileu archaeological site, both classified as being of Public Interest.

The site was discovered accidentally in 1951 during the construction work on the road linking the station to the city centre.

The urban regeneration work underway in the surrounding area was due to be completed by the end of the summer. The work includes urban planning and improving road safety.