Perhaps the most famous (and fascinating) type of human relic from prehistoric times are megalithic constructions. These are symbolic or practical constructions made from enormous stone slabs. (Megalith means “large stones”) Portugal has hundreds, if not thousands, of megalithic sites. These generally include funerary structures (dolmens or antas), standing stones (menhirs or menires), and stone circles or enclosures (cromlechs or cromeleques).
Use the map below to browse or search among the various megalithic sites. Clicking on a cluster (a coloured circle with a number in it) will zoom in and disperse the cluster. Highlighted map markers indicate sites that are described on this website. More posts are added as sites get visited. (If you know of a megalith that should be added to the map, please let me know!)
Below the map is a list of all the megalithic sites on our website …so far!
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Anta da Masmorra
High on a hill, surrounded by nothing but low scrub and forest, stands an abandoned and ruined site: a shattered windmill tower beside the road, forlorn. Just beyond lies the far more ancient Anta da Masmorra, showing less damage than the (relatively) modern windmill. This prehistoric tomb rests quietly in relative anonymity and isolation. It…
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Anta das Pedras Altas
Sit on the hill and take in the vista of the Algarve countryside all around you. No town is near enough to hear. You might hear the birds, or possibly barking dogs, but mostly you’ll hear the wind. The dolmen enjoys this peace and quiet, and has done for thousands of years. The noise and…
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Anta das Pedras Grandes
The ancient stones stand regally in the centre of a large urban park. Despite the loss of many stones, the anta seems proud to be enshrined in such a prominent spot in the community. Passing dog-walkers may pay no heed, resting or picnicking families may not take time to read the informative plaque, but the…
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Anta-Capela de São Dinis
Also called: Anta de Pavia The enormous dolmen stands proudly in the square, grey and hulking beside the traditional yellow and white Alentejana buildings. It presents its original rear towards the square, but as you head around to its entrance its transformation becomes clear. The squared-off stone entranceway replaces the original corridor, and the cross…
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Dólmen or Anta-Capela of St. Mary Magdalene
Sitting in the quiet & peaceful church, you can contemplate faith and history at the same time. The church itself dates back to the 16th century, and the hundreds of years of devotion has permeated the azulejo tiles, marble altar, and beautiful stained-glass windows devoted to its patron saint. Then you turn and enter the…