A heritage defense association filed a precautionary measure with the Administrative and Tax Court (TAF) of Braga to stop the works of the new market of Viana do Castelo, intending to safeguard archaeological finds found at the site, namely a Benedictine convent from the 16th century existing in the subsurface of the former Coutinho building. The Vian'Acorda association is responsible for this legal action.
The TAF of Braga admitted the precautionary measure "at the outset," according to a decision dated September 1st, which the Lusat news agency had access to. This decision represents a first step in the judicial process that may result in the suspension of the works.
The Council of Viana do Castelo expressed intention to proceed with the work and threatened to seek compensation for any delays caused by the legal process. The local authority argues that the project should continue despite the archaeological finds.
The conflict thus opposes the heritage defense association, which aims to protect the historical remains, to the Municipal Council, which wants to continue the construction of the new market and does not accept stoppages.
