This page features some of the settlements that existed in Portugal during the prehistoric period – typically during the ages of metal. Some were fortified stone hillforts (castros), while others were places enclosed with ditches. Many prehistoric settlements continued to be occupied in the historic period, and the artefacts and remnants of the prehistoric period may be lost. When there is a significant element of prehistory in such a location, it will be included here.
Use the map in the sidebar to browse or search among the various prehistoric sites. (The “Filters” control in the top right corner allows you to select types of sites.) Highlighted map markers indicate sites that are described on this website.
Below is a list of all the Settlement sites on our website (so far!).
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Castro de Vila Nova de São Pedro
Also known as: Povoado Calcolítico (“Chalcolithic settlement”) or Povoado fortificado (“fortified settlement”) of Vila Nova de São Pedro Stand on the hilltop and look around the surrounding area. Across the river valley, you can see surrounding hilltops and, off in the distance, mountain ranges. It’s a secure location, and it feels even more secure when…
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Museum of the Southwest Script
Portuguese: Museu da Escrita Sudoeste de Almodôvar (MESA) The characters tease you: they look familiar, and they obviously convey a message. What is it? It’s impossible to say. Someday we may decipher all the symbols, but for now they remain enigmatic, leaving us to wonder at the people who lived here before the Romans. This…
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Neanderthal footprints
Sit on the edge of the cliff, looking out to sea. The wind blows in your face while the sun warms your back. Watch people walking along the beach. Watch fishermen walking along the cliffs. Then look down at the sandstone sheet below you. The marks in the stone are the footprints left by people…
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Castro de Chibanes
Also known as: Povoada de Chibanes Walk along the ridge of the Serra de Louro, and enjoy the tremendous view. To the east stands the castle of Palmela on a high hill. To the north, you can see to the Tejo River mouth and the capital city of Lisbon. To the south, you can see…
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Perdigões Archaeological Complex
Also known as: Cromeleque de Perdigões Below the flapping tarpaulins, archaeologists work, carefully excavating holes in the hard clay. There are many holes, forming a series of concentric circles. The team leader explains the site, using maps and illustrations. He points off to the East and explains how the enclosure opened up towards the rising…