Legend

According to the tradition handed down from generation to generation, it was here, next to the Tagus, that the shepherds travelling with their flocks from the cold lands of the north to the fertile plains of the Alentejo met. It was common for the shepherds to wait for each other for mutual protection, next to the Tagus in this parish, which gave rise to the expression esperais (wait), which was later shortened to perais, which gave the place its name.

Source: “Resenha Histórica” of the Parish Heraldic Symbols.

Because of its proximity to Spain, Perais became a stopping-off and resting place for smugglers. Esperais aí - wait there - was the watchword.

The quick, soft whispers turned Esperais into Perais.

Source: “Vila Velha de Ródão - Viagens do Olhar” by Vila Velha de Ródão Municipal Centre for Culture and Development.