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 were 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 at the right to search for specific sites (highlighted map markers indicate settlements that are described on this website), or browse through the entries below. More posts are added as sites are visited!
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Oliveira do Mouchão
In a sleepy corner of a small village just north of the Tejo River, stands an oliveira, or olive tree. It’s massive trunk is hollowed out, and is cut off just over three meters above the ground, allowing fresh young branches to grow. The wind whispers softly through the leaves and whistles slightly as it