Grândola is a municipality located in the Setúbal District of southern
Portugal, within the Alentejo region.
It spans over 825 square kilometers and had a population of approximately
13,800 as of 2021. The town is known for its expansive rural landscape,
characterized by cork oak forests, agricultural fields, and a Mediterranean
climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Grândola is divided into
several parishes, including Melides, Carvalhal, and Santa Margarida da Serra,
each contributing to the area's cultural and ecological diversity.
The town holds a symbolic place in Portuguese history due to the song
"Grândola, Vila Morena," which became an anthem of the Carnation Revolution in
1974. This peaceful uprising ended decades of dictatorship and restored
democracy in Portugal. The song, originally written by José Afonso, was
broadcast on the radio as a signal to begin the revolution, cementing
Grândola’s name in the national consciousness. Today, the town honors this
legacy with monuments and annual commemorations that attract visitors and
locals alike.
Beyond its historical significance, Grândola offers a blend of natural beauty
and cultural heritage. The nearby Tróia Peninsula and beaches like Comporta
and Carvalhal are popular destinations, known for their pristine sands and
scenic dunes. The Sado River estuary and the Melides Lagoon provide habitats
for diverse bird species, making the region attractive for nature tourism.
Archaeological sites, including Roman-era fish-salting tanks, add depth to the
area's historical appeal, while local cuisine and wines reflect the rich
traditions of the Alentejo.
Suggested Car Tour: Grândola → Azinheira dos Barros → Lousal
→ São Bartolomeu da Serra → Santiago do Cacém → Lagoa de
Santo André → Lagoa de Melides → Melides → Grândola. Route
Length: 130km (80mi).
Grândola
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Suggested walking tour in Grândola
Municipal Garden →
Parish Church → Roman Station of Cerrado do Castelo → Stone
tree → Municipal Garden
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Municipal Garden (1st of May Garden)
The Municipal Garden of
Grândola, officially known as Jardim 1º de Maio, is a public
green space located in the heart of the town.
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Originally commissioned by the municipal council in 1938, it was
constructed between 1940 and 1944 on a site formerly known as Rocio
Oriental and Rocio da Feira. Upon its inauguration in December 1944,
it was named Jardim 28 de Maio, but following the Carnation
Revolution in 1974, its name was changed to commemorate International
Workers' Day. The garden features a central lake, a variety of trees
and plants, a children's playground, and public restrooms. It also
includes monuments honoring local benefactors António Inácio da Cruz
and Ana Luísa da Cruz Costa, as well as a sculpture dedicated to
aviators Sacadura Cabral and Gago Coutinho.
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Over the years, the garden has undergone several transformations. Once
a vibrant hub with bird cages, ducks, and swans adorning its lake, it
experienced a period of decline. However, recent revitalization
efforts have aimed to restore its charm and utility. In 2019, the
playground was renovated with inclusive and nature-themed equipment,
such as the “Floresta do Gnomo” activity tower and other imaginative
structures. Despite these improvements, some visitors note that the
garden has not fully regained its former vitality. Nevertheless, it
remains a shaded retreat during the hot summer months and continues to
serve as a communal space for leisure and reflection.
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See more at
Grândola - Wikipedia.
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Photograph by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Grândola Parish Church
Grândola Parish Church, also known as
Igreja Matriz de Grândola or
Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Assunção, is a 15th-century religious
structure located in the town’s central Largo Marquês de Pombal.
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Originally referred to as the Church of Nossa Senhora da Abendada, it
underwent significant repairs in 1513 under the direction of D. Jorge,
master of the Order of Santiago. At that time, the church was in a
state of disrepair, with deteriorated wall paintings and a rudimentary
clay baptismal font. Over the 16th century, the church was gradually
expanded and remodeled, eventually adopting the architectural form
that defines it today.
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The church is currently under consideration for classification as a
Property of Public Interest and remains in good condition. It serves
as the main place of worship for the local Catholic community and is
part of the Diocese of Beja. The building reflects a blend of
historical layers, with its evolving structure bearing witness to
centuries of religious and cultural life in Grândola. Its central
location and enduring presence make it a focal point for both
spiritual gatherings and local heritage appreciation.
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See more at
Grândola - Wikipedia.
- Photograph by Pedro distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Roman Station of Cerrado do Castelo
The Roman Station of
Cerrado do Castelo, located in Grândola, is an archaeological site
dating from the 1st to the 4th century AD.
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It is believed to have functioned as a villa, mansio, or
mutatio—types of Roman rural estates or waystations along Roman
roads. The site was first documented in the 16th century and later
studied in more detail by archaeologist Leite de Vasconcelos in the
early 20th century. Excavations in 1989 and 1990 revealed a complex of
structures, including a thermal bath area with a pool, compartments
bordered by schist walls, and four small tanks. These findings suggest
the presence of a well-developed infrastructure, possibly serving both
residential and logistical purposes between the Roman cities of
Salacia (modern Alcácer do Sal) and Miróbriga (Santiago
do Cacém).
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The site is situated near the Grândola stream and close to a Roman
dam, which would have facilitated water supply for the baths and
irrigation of surrounding farmland. Artifacts such as ceramic
fragments, coins, and a Roman burial site with a gold necklace and
signet ring have been discovered in the vicinity, further supporting
the site's historical significance. Despite damage from modern
construction, the remaining ruins offer valuable insight into Roman
rural life and infrastructure in the Alentejo region. The station has
been classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1997,
underscoring its cultural and archaeological importance.
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See more at
Grândola - Wikipedia.
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Photograph by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Stone tree
The Stone Tree (Árvore de Pedra) in
Grândola is a local landmark situated at Praça Apolónia Gonçalves, in
the heart of the town.
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Despite its name, it is not a natural geological formation but rather
a symbolic structure or installation. The site is accessible at all
hours, serving as a point of interest for both residents and visitors.
While specific historical or artistic details about the structure are
limited in public records, its presence in a central square suggests
it may function as a cultural or artistic feature, possibly linked to
local identity or community expression.
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The name "Stone Tree" evokes a blend of natural and sculptural
imagery, potentially symbolizing endurance, rootedness, or
transformation. Although it is listed under travel-related services,
possibly as a point of reference or meeting spot, there is no
indication that it serves a commercial or functional purpose beyond
its symbolic or aesthetic role. Its continuous accessibility and
central location make it a familiar fixture in Grândola’s urban
landscape, contributing to the town’s character and offering a quiet
space for reflection or gathering.
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See more at
Grândola - Wikipedia.
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Photograph by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Grândola → Azinheira dos Barros
Driving route between
Grândola and Azinheira dos Barros.
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Azinheira dos Barros
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Azinheira dos Barros
Azinheira dos Barros is a village in
the municipality of Grândola, located in the Alentejo region of southern
Portugal.
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It has been recognized as a parish since 1545 and was later merged
with the neighboring parish of São Mamede do Sádão during the
administrative reorganization of 1855, forming the current civil
parish of Azinheira dos Barros e São Mamede do Sádão. The area spans
approximately 172.5 square kilometers and is situated in the
southeastern part of the municipality. Its landscape is defined by the
peneplain east of the Grândola mountain range and the Sado River
basin, with gentle terrain traversed by the Sado, Davino, and Corona
rivers.
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Geologically, the region is split between the Alentejo pyrite belt and
the Pliocene-era sandy and clay formations of the Sado basin. This
dual composition has influenced both the natural environment and
historical land use. The parish is characterized by rural settlements,
agricultural activity, and a quiet pace of life, reflecting the
broader traditions of the Alentejo. Despite its small population—198
residents as of the 2011 census—Azinheira dos Barros maintains a
distinct identity within the municipality, with Nossa Senhora da
Conceição as its patron saint and a local heritage rooted in centuries
of habitation and adaptation to the surrounding landscape.
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See more at
Azinheira dos Barros - Wikipedia.
- Photograph by PedroFRuas distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.
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Church of Azinheira dos Barros
The Church of Nossa Senhora
da Conceição in Azinheira dos Barros, Grândola, dates back to the early
16th century, with construction likely beginning around 1510 and nearing
completion by 1513.
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It became the parish seat following the establishment of the
Freguesia dos Bayrros in 1545. Architecturally, the church
features a single-story rectangular layout with a gabled roof covered
in Marseille tiles. The structure includes a main nave, a chancel, a
lateral baptistery and sacristy, and a square bell tower with a single
bell. Its simple yet harmonious design reflects the rural
ecclesiastical architecture typical of the Alentejo region during that
period.
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The church has been well preserved and remains an active place of
worship within the Diocese of Beja. Its whitewashed facades, accented
with gray trim and cornices, contribute to its understated elegance.
The building's volumes are horizontally arranged, with differentiated
rooflines that add visual interest without excessive ornamentation.
The Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição stands as a testament to the
enduring religious and cultural traditions of Azinheira dos Barros,
serving both as a spiritual center and a historical landmark within
the community.
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See more at
Azinheira dos Barros - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by PedroFRuas distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.
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Azinheira dos Barros → Lousal
Driving route between
Azinheira dos Barros and Lousal.
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Lousal
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Lousal Mining Museum
The Museu Mineiro do Lousal,
located in the former mining village of Lousal in the Alentejo region,
is housed in the old power station of the Lousal Mine and was
inaugurated in 2001.
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It forms part of the broader
Museu Municipal Polinucleado de Grândola and showcases the
industrial and social history of the mine, which operated from 1900 to
1988. The museum preserves original machinery such as compressors and
generators that once powered mining operations, and it includes
interactive exhibits that illustrate the use of compressed air in
mining tools and equipment. The collection also features documents,
tools, furniture, and personal items that reflect the daily life and
labor of the miners over nearly nine decades of activity.
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Following a major renovation completed in December 2024, the museum
now offers improved accessibility and updated interpretive displays.
It is a central element of the Relousal project, which aimed to
rehabilitate the village and promote its cultural and scientific
heritage. The museum not only serves as a historical archive but also
as an educational space, offering insights into the geological
significance of the Iberian Pyrite Belt and the environmental impact
of mining. Its integration into a wider network of cultural and
scientific institutions has made it a key destination for visitors
interested in industrial archaeology and the legacy of mining in
Portugal.
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See more at
Museu Mineiro do Lousal - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Luismatosribeiro distributed under a CC-BY 1.0 license.
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Lousal Mining Museum → Lousal Science Centre
Walking
route between Lousal Mining Museum and Lousal Science Centre.
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Lousal Science Centre
The
Centro Ciência Viva do Lousal, also known as the Lousal Science
Centre, is located in the village of Lousal within the municipality of
Grândola.
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Inaugurated on June 30, 2010, it is part of the national
Ciência Viva network and is housed in a former mining complex
that once included facilities such as the geology office, oil
warehouse, and workers’ changing rooms. The center embraces a modern
museological approach, offering interactive exhibits focused on
geology, physics, biology, chemistry, and computer science. Its
mission is to promote scientific and technological literacy through
hands-on learning and public engagement.
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The center features a range of facilities including a virtual cave,
laboratory, experimentarium, cybercafé, auditorium, and recreational
areas. These spaces are designed to make science accessible and
engaging for visitors of all ages, with a particular emphasis on the
geological and industrial heritage of the Iberian Pyrite Belt. The
Lousal Science Centre plays a key role in the cultural and educational
revitalization of the former mining village, complementing the nearby
Lousal Mining Museum. Together, they form a cohesive narrative that
bridges the region’s industrial past with its scientific and
educational future.
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See more at
Centro Ciência Viva do Lousal - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Luismatosribeiro distributed under a CC-BY 1.0 license.
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Lousal → São Bartolomeu da Serra
Driving route between
Lousal and São Bartolomeu da Serra.
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São Bartolomeu da Serra
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Parish Church of Saint Bartholomew of the Mountain
The
Parish Church of Saint Bartholomew of the Mountain, or
Igreja Matriz de São Bartolomeu da Serra, is located in the
parish of São Bartolomeu da Serra, within the municipality of Santiago
do Cacém, Setúbal District.
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This rural church reflects the architectural simplicity typical of
small ecclesiastical buildings associated with the Order of Santiago.
Its structure follows a longitudinal plan composed of a single nave
and a narrower chancel. The building is characterized by its austere
design, with minimal ornamentation, and includes a bell tower and a
main altar featuring baroque elements from the late 18th century,
subtly influenced by neoclassical motifs.
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The church's origins likely date back to the second half of the 16th
century, when the parish itself was established. Over time, several
chapels were instituted within the church, and by the early 18th
century, two confraternities—Nossa Senhora do Rosário and the
Santíssimo Sacramento—were founded. A notable historical
artifact is the original limestone statue of Saint Bartholomew from
the 14th century, which is now preserved in the parish residence of
Santiago do Cacém. Despite suffering damage from a fire in 1895, the
church has retained its essential form and continues to serve as a
focal point of religious and cultural life in the local community.
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See more at
São Bartolomeu da Serra - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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São Bartolomeu da Serra → Santiago do Cacém
Driving
route between São Bartolomeu da Serra and Santiago do Cacém.
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Santiago do Cacém
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Windmill of the Ridges
The Windmill of the Ridges, also
known as Moinho de Vento das Cumeadas or
Moinho da Quintinha, is a traditional windmill located in the
Cumeadas area of Santiago do Cacém, in Portugal’s Alentejo region.
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This structure is a well-preserved example of vernacular agricultural
architecture, featuring a cylindrical stone tower with a conical
rotating cap made of zinc-coated sheet metal. The cap is mounted on a
wooden frame and can be turned using an internal winch system to align
the sails with the prevailing winds. The windmill was part of a
pre-industrial milling network that once surrounded the town, playing
a vital role in local grain processing before the advent of modern
milling technologies.
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Constructed before 1813, the windmill includes a ground floor, attic,
and loft, with two doors oriented east and west to accommodate
dominant wind directions. Its simple, functional design is enhanced by
blue-painted trim around the openings, a stylistic touch common in the
region. The windmill is considered a cultural symbol of Santiago do
Cacém and is one of approximately 70 mills identified in the
municipality, including both wind and water mills. Although many of
these structures are now at risk, the Windmill of the Ridges stands
out for its preservation and serves as a reminder of the region’s
rural heritage and the ingenuity of traditional milling practices.
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See more at
Santiago do Cacém - Wikipedia.
- Photograph by tjabeljan distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Windmill of the Ridges → Miróbriga Archaeological Site
Driving route between Windmill of the Ridges and Miróbriga
Archaeological Site.
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Miróbriga Archaeological Site
Miróbriga is a significant
archaeological site near Santiago do Cacém in southern Portugal,
showcasing the remains of a Roman and pre-Roman settlement.
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Originally inhabited during the Iron Age, possibly as early as the 9th
century BCE, the site later developed into a Roman town by the 1st
century CE. Its strategic location on a hill provided visibility and
control over the surrounding region, which was rich in agricultural,
maritime, and mineral resources. The Roman phase of Miróbriga saw the
construction of a forum, temples, residential areas, and a road
network, reflecting its importance as a regional hub in the province
of Lusitania.
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Among the most notable features are the well-preserved Roman baths,
considered some of the best examples in Portugal, and a hippodrome,
the only known Roman circus in the country. The site also includes
remnants of a bridge, aqueduct, and various domestic structures,
offering insight into urban planning and daily life in Roman times.
Excavations have revealed layers of occupation and adaptation, from
Celtic origins to Roman expansion, making Miróbriga a valuable
resource for understanding the cultural and historical transitions in
the Iberian Peninsula. Today, the site is open to the public and
managed as a cultural heritage location, with interpretive facilities
that support educational and tourism activities.
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See more at
Miróbriga - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Miróbriga Archaeological Site → Castle of Santiago do Cacém
Driving route between Miróbriga Archaeological Site and Castle of
Santiago do Cacém.
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Castle of Santiago do Cacém
The Castle of Santiago do Cacém
is a medieval fortress perched on a hilltop overlooking the town of the
same name in Portugal’s Alentejo region.
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Its origins trace back to a Moorish fortification built during the
Islamic occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, when the settlement was
known as Kassen. The site had earlier been inhabited by Celtic
tribes and later integrated into the Roman domain as part of
Miróbriga. During the Christian Reconquista, the castle was captured
and rebuilt by Portuguese forces under King Afonso I and his
successors. By 1217, it was definitively taken by the Order of
Santiago, who fortified it further and established it as a key
defensive and administrative center.
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The castle features robust stone walls with a double enclosure and ten
towers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and
the Atlantic coast. Within its walls lies the town’s cemetery, a quiet
contrast to its once-military function. Though partially restored, the
structure retains its medieval character, with remnants of battlements
and defensive architecture still visible. The castle is classified as
a national monument and remains a prominent symbol of Santiago do
Cacém’s layered history, reflecting centuries of cultural transitions
from pre-Roman to Islamic and Christian rule. It stands today not only
as a historical landmark but also as a scenic vantage point and
cultural attraction.
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See more at
Castelo de Santiago do Cacém - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Parish Church of Santiago do Cacém
The Parish Church of
Santiago do Cacém, also known as
Igreja Matriz de Santiago do Cacém, is a Gothic-style church
built in the 13th century by the Order of Santiago.
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It stands adjacent to the southeastern perimeter of the medieval
castle walls, reinforcing the town’s historical and strategic
significance during the Christian Reconquista. The church is dedicated
to Saint James the Greater (Santiago Maior), a patron of the
military order that played a central role in the region’s defense and
religious life. Its architecture features a Romanesque-Gothic blend,
with a notable ogival side portico adorned with zoomorphic capitals
and a vaulted high choir.
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Over the centuries, the church underwent several renovations,
including major interventions in the 16th, 18th, and early 19th
centuries, some of which were prompted by damage from the 1755
earthquake. The interior houses a high-relief sculpture of Saint James
depicted in battle against the Moors, symbolizing the Christian
conquest of the area. The main facade contrasts this martial imagery
by portraying the saint as a pilgrim, complete with hat, staff, and
gourd. Though it no longer hosts regular worship, the church has been
preserved as a historical monument and is maintained by the Diocese of
Beja, serving as a cultural and architectural landmark in Santiago do
Cacém.
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See more at
Igreja Matriz de Santiago do Cacém - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Senhormario, distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.
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Castle → Municipal Museum
Driving route between Castle
and Municipal Museum.
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Santiago do Cacém Municipal Museum
The Santiago do Cacém
Municipal Museum is located in the town’s Praça do Município and has
been housed since 1972 in a 19th-century civil building that once served
as the local jail.
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Designed by architect Chiapa Monteiro, the structure functioned as a
prison until 1968, after which it was adapted for cultural use. The
museum's origins, however, date back to the early 1930s, when Dr. João
da Cruz e Silva began assembling a collection of archaeological and
numismatic artifacts that would later form the core of the
institution’s holdings. His contributions were instrumental in
establishing the museum as a center for preserving and interpreting
the region’s historical legacy.
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The museum’s collection spans from the Paleolithic to the medieval
period, with a particular emphasis on the Roman ruins of Miróbriga,
located nearby. Visitors can explore a range of artifacts including
ceramics, coins, tools, and architectural fragments that reflect the
long and layered history of human settlement in the area. The museum
also offers guided tours and educational programs, making it a
valuable resource for both locals and tourists interested in the
cultural heritage of the Alentejo region. Its central location and
historical setting enhance its role as a cultural anchor within
Santiago do Cacém.
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See more at
Santiago do Cacém - Wikipedia.
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Santiago do Cacém Municipal Museum → Badoca Safari Park
Driving route between Santiago do Cacém Municipal Museum and
Badoca Safari Park.
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Badoca Safari Park
Badoca Safari Park is a wildlife and
adventure park located near Santiago do Cacém in the Alentejo region of
Portugal.
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Spanning approximately 90 hectares, the park offers a safari-style
experience where visitors can observe over 600 animals from different
continents, including zebras, giraffes, antelopes, and ostriches,
roaming freely in open spaces. The park was designed to simulate the
African savannah and aims to provide an immersive, educational
experience that emphasizes wildlife conservation and environmental
awareness. It is especially popular with families and school groups,
offering a unique alternative to traditional zoos.
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In addition to the safari, the park features a variety of attractions
such as a bird of prey show, a primate island, a reptile presentation,
and interactive zones for children. There are also themed experiences
like the VIP Safari, which includes guided tours and meals, and the
Glamping Experience for overnight stays. The park integrates leisure
with learning, promoting respect for biodiversity while offering a
full day of entertainment. Its location, just 1.5 hours south of
Lisbon, makes it an accessible destination for both locals and
tourists seeking a nature-based outing in the Alentejo countryside.
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See more at
Badoca Safari Park - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Tiago Borlido, distributed under a CC-BY 3.0 license.
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Badoca Safari Park → Santo André Lagoon
Driving route
between Badoca Safari Park and Santo André Lagoon.
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Lagoa de Santo André
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Santo André Lagoon
Santo André Lagoon, or
Lagoa de Santo André, is the largest coastal lagoon in the
Alentejo region of Portugal, covering approximately 500 hectares.
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It forms part of the Lagoas de Santo André e da Sancha Natural
Reserve, a protected area that spans the municipalities of Sines and
Santiago do Cacém. The lagoon is separated from the Atlantic Ocean by
a narrow dune barrier, which is seasonally breached to regulate water
levels and salinity. This dynamic interaction between freshwater and
seawater creates a rich and diverse ecosystem that supports a wide
range of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, amphibians, and
aquatic plants.
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The surrounding landscape includes marshes, reed beds, dunes, and pine
forests, offering a mosaic of habitats that are vital for biodiversity
conservation. The lagoon is a popular destination for birdwatching,
especially during migration periods, and is home to species such as
the Eurasian coot and the little bittern. It also supports
recreational activities like kayaking, hiking, and nature photography,
while maintaining a strong emphasis on environmental education and
sustainable tourism. The area’s ecological significance and scenic
beauty make it a key feature of the Alentejo coast, balancing
conservation with public enjoyment.
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See more at
Reserva Natural das Lagoas de Santo André e da Sancha -
Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Santo André Lagoon → Melides Lagoon
Driving route
between Santo André Lagoon and Melides Lagoon.
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Lagoa de Melides
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Melides Lagoon
Melides Lagoon, or Lagoa de Melides,
is a coastal lagoon located near the village of Melides in the
municipality of Grândola, Alentejo.
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It is part of a delicate ecosystem where freshwater from inland
streams meets the Atlantic Ocean, separated by a narrow sandbar that
is occasionally breached, either naturally or manually, to regulate
water levels. The lagoon is surrounded by pine forests, dunes, and
agricultural fields, creating a diverse landscape that supports a
variety of plant and animal species. It is especially valued for its
birdlife, attracting both resident and migratory species, making it a
favored spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
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The area around the lagoon is also popular for recreational activities
such as kayaking, fishing, and walking along the scenic trails that
wind through the surrounding countryside. The nearby Melides Beach
offers a long stretch of sand and is accessible from the lagoon,
providing a tranquil setting for swimming and sunbathing. Despite its
growing popularity, the lagoon retains a peaceful, unspoiled
character, with efforts in place to balance tourism with environmental
preservation. Its natural beauty and ecological importance make it a
key feature of the Alentejo coast and a cherished destination for
those seeking a quiet connection with nature.
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See more at
Lagoa de Melides - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Melides Lagoon → Melides
Driving route between Melides
Lagoon and Melides.
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Melides
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Fountain of the Eyes
Fountain of the Eyes, or
Fonte dos Olhos, is a tranquil natural spring located in the
heart of the village of Melides, within the municipality of Grândola.
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Constructed in the late 1960s, the fountain was originally developed
to supply water to the local population. Over time, it also served as
a communal washhouse, reflecting its importance in the daily lives of
the residents. The site is now part of a small park that features a
reflective body of water, shaded areas, and walking paths, making it a
peaceful retreat for both locals and visitors.
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Today, the Fountain of the Eyes is appreciated not only for its
historical utility but also for its scenic and recreational value. The
area has been gradually revitalized through local initiatives,
transforming it into a pleasant public space that blends natural
beauty with cultural heritage. Surrounded by greenery and offering a
cool, shaded environment, it serves as a favored spot for relaxation,
picnics, and quiet contemplation. The fountain remains a modest yet
meaningful symbol of Melides’ rural traditions and community life.
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See more at
Melides - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Melides → Grândola
Driving route between Melides and
Grândola.
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Grândola
Suggested Car Tour
Suggested Car Tour Map
Where to Stay in Grândola
Hotels Map
Where to Eat in Grândola
Restaurants Map
🍽️ Local Culinary Traditions
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🥖
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Bread
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Pão Alentejano - Dense, crusty wheat bread with a chewy
interior, often used in soups and stews
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Broa de milho - Cornbread occasionally found in rural areas,
though less common than wheat-based varieties
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🍲
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Soups
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Açorda alentejana - A garlic and cilantro broth poured over
slices of day-old bread, often topped with a poached egg
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Sopa de tomate com ovos escalfados - Tomato soup enriched
with poached eggs and sometimes chouriço or stale bread
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🐟
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Fish Dishes
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Caldeirada de peixe - A traditional fish stew made with a
variety of local fish, potatoes, peppers, and tomatoes
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🏅 Enguias fritas ou de caldeirada - Eel, either
fried or stewed, especially common near the Santo André and
Melides lagoons
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Choco frito - Fried cuttlefish, often served with fries or
salad, popular along the Alentejo coast
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🍗
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Meat Dishes
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Carne de porco à alentejana - Pork marinated and cooked with
clams, garlic, and coriander, though more typical of the
broader Alentejo
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Ensopado de borrego - Lamb stew with garlic, bay leaf, and
white wine, served over slices of bread
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Migas com entrecosto - Fried bread crumbs flavored with
garlic and pork fat, served with pork ribs or other meats
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🍰
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Sweets
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Filhós and azevias - Fried pastries filled with pumpkin or
sweet chickpea paste, common during festive seasons
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Pão de rala - Almond-based sweet with egg yolk and sugar,
originally from Évora but found in Grândola’s pastry shops
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Bolinhos de mel - Honey cakes made with spices and olive
oil, reflecting Moorish culinary influences
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🍷
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Wine
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Vinho Regional Alentejano - Grândola is part of the Setúbal
Peninsula wine region, with local producers offering robust
reds and aromatic whites
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🏅 Herdade Canal Caveira and
Herdade da Comporta - Notable local wineries
producing quality wines with regional grape varieties like
Aragonez, Trincadeira, and Antão Vaz
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Where to Go to Bars and Pubs in Grândola
Bars and Pubs Map
See Also
Source
