The saloia region focuses on rural areas around Lisbon, crossing the municipalities of Loures, Mafra and Sintra.
There are several explanations for the saloio term. The explanation that seems to have more consistency goes back to the origins of nationality. After the conquest of Lisbon, D. Afonso Henriques, allowed the Moors who lived around there to remain in possession of their homes and properties. These Moors were called Çaloyos, expression that can result from a prayer known as çala.
The name may also be associated with the bread that the Moors bakers handed out in Lisbon as tribute, which was designated çalayo.
Other authors report that the word “saloio” is related to the Moors from Salé, northwestern city of Morocco, who settled near Lisbon.
Despite the Christian occupation that followed, the term saloio to designate the inhabitants of rural areas around Lisbon survived until nowdays.
The saloia region is closely linked to the production and selling of agricultural products oriented to supply the city of Lisbon. Among the most important local products are the fruit and vegetables, cheese and wine, which contribute to the existence of a rich and varied cuisine.
Both the fresh cheese and the wines from the regions of Colares and Bucelas are saloio’s products with an enormous prestige, greatly appreciated throughout the country.
Sources: http://www.ruralea.com/ and https://ciberduvidas.iscte-iul.pt/
