O regime senhorial na fronteira do nordeste português. Alto Douro e Riba Côa (séculos XI-XIII)

Abstract

In this study it is intended to analyse the space of the regions of Trás-os-Montes and of Beira Alta – separated by the valley of the River Douro – in areas of their eastern frontiers with León-Castile in the perspective of the implementation of the seigneurial system. Throughout a chronology that extends from the appearance of the County of Portucale (Oporto) at the end of the 11th century till the final definition of Portugal’s frontiers in the 13th century, it follows the course of the most powerful noble lineages established there in order to understand the different forms of seigneurialisation utilized, along with the efforts of the crown to impede that process.First, the implantation of the seigneurial regime in each of those regions is analysed separately; then they are viewed globally in both geographical and chronological terms through the exercise of the government of the various lands by the noble houses referred to, which, it is argued, was one of the most important vehicles for the expansion of that regime.