Family Roots
THE GENEALOGY OF AN ETERNAL STONE
"Each layer of rock we uncover is a chapter we honor. The history of Canelas Slate intersects with the history of our own family."
Geological Recognition
Long before the modern industrial structure, the scientific value of our slate had already attracted the interest of distinguished geologists, mapping what would become a global legacy in the Valongo Formation.
Transportation from the Origins
Animal strength and human skill came together to conquer the slopes of Arouca, transporting the raw material that would shape the traditional roofs and soul of our region.
The Wisdom of Hands
In an era of rudimentary tools, it was the hearing and touch of the louseiros (woodcutters) that dictated the perfect splitting plan, a manual technique that we still preserve today as a mark of quality.
The Dawn of a New Era
Through the revitalization of local knowledge and a specialized course for louseiros, we have restored the parish of Canelas' economic engine and its greatest source of industrial pride.
Local Unity and Commitment
Valério & Figueiredo was born out of the community. This photograph celebrates the first workers who, with dedication, laid the foundations of the company we lead today.
Building the Structure
The construction of the administrative headquarters in 1988 symbolized the solidity of the project. We were no longer just a quarry, but had become an organization focused on excellence and the global market.
Respect for the Material
Handcrafted extraction allowed us to gain a deep understanding of the rock. Each block was treated with the reverence that a 465-million-year-old material demands, ensuring the integrity of the cleavage.
The Industrial Leap
The introduction of specialized machinery in 1991 allowed us to gain scale and precision, preparing Valério & Figueiredo for major international contemporary architecture projects.