The founding of this settlement is attributed to friar Lourenço Afonso, a master in the Order of Aviz, in 1342. Galveias was a priory in the Order of Avis, and benefited from the Order's wealth, and religious patronage. But, economically, the region was already a prosperous agricultural centre, supported by the cultivation of oranges and raising of local poultry (both emblematic of its coat-of-arms). It was originally known as Vila Nova do Laranjal because of its many orange groves. In addition, olive oil and wine (currently marketed under the Marques Ratão brand) were produced and commercialized by its citizens.