In the quiet countryside of the Alto Alentejo, the water of the Santa Margarida stream flows slowly down to the Montargil reservoir. Along its banks, if you look carefully among the trees and bushes, lie two prehistoric tombs made of schist. They’ve endured some rough handling through the ages since …
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 …
As you follow the well-trodden (and well-worn!) path, with wired fences on either side of you, you get the feeling that you are simply being herded to something very pedestrian and unimpressive. The nearby farm buildings do nothing to allay you of your suspicions that you are wasting your time. …
Stand on the grassy hillside, facing west, surrounded by cork oak trees, and notice the wind blowing and the birds calling. In the far distance, you can just hear the hum of cars & possibly the noise of farmers calling out to their workers. In the far distance, you can …
Portuguese name: Cromeleque do Vale Maria do Meio Nestled in a cork oak forest, the stones stand in an elongated group. The hot breeze blows past them and through the trees, making the leaves tremble and rustle slightly. That’s the only sound you hear, along with the buzz of insects. …
Protected by the overhanging rock, the red stains stand out. Even after five thousand years, the shapes and designs can still be made out. What their significance is, we can only guess. Some depict people, others animals, while others are abstract symbols. One panel shows groups of lines: were these …
I am an immigrant to Portugal, who came here five years ago to make it my family’s home. Since that time, we’ve traveled to many corners of the country and have loved every place and every experience. Last year, we visited the beautiful town of Marvão, in the Alto Alentejo. …
