Sines is a coastal town in the Alentejo region of Portugal, situated along the
Atlantic Ocean.
It is part of the Setúbal District and lies roughly halfway between Lisbon and
the Algarve. The town is known for its strategic port, which is the largest
artificial deep-water port in Portugal and a key hub for maritime trade.
Despite its industrial importance, Sines maintains a small-town atmosphere
with a population of just over 14,000 residents.
The town holds historical significance as the birthplace of Vasco da Gama, the
famed Portuguese navigator who led the first voyage from Europe to India by
sea. His legacy is commemorated in the local castle, where he is believed to
have been born, and in various monuments and museums throughout the town.
Sines also features Roman and Moorish archaeological remains, reflecting its
long and layered past. The town center blends medieval architecture with
modern development, offering a mix of cultural and historical experiences.
Beyond its industrial and historical roles, Sines is also appreciated for its
natural beauty. It borders the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural
Park, a protected area known for its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and
biodiversity. Praia de São Torpes and Praia Grande are popular spots for
swimming and surfing, while the surrounding countryside offers hiking and
birdwatching opportunities. Sines has also become known for its summer music
festival, FMM Sines, which draws international artists and visitors to the
town each year.
Suggested Car Tour: Sines → São Torpes Beach → Porto Covo →
Pessegueiro Island → Morgavel Dam → Cercal → Campilhas Dam
→ São Domingos → Sines. Route Length: 145km (90mi).
Sines
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Suggested walking tour in Sines
Castle of Sines Parking Lot
→ Roman Fish Salting Factory (ruins) → Castle of Sines →
Sines Museum / Vasco da Gama House → Main Church of the Savior or
Main Church of Sines → Statue of Vasco da Gama → Sines Winery
- Adega de Sines → Castle of Sines Parking Lot
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Roman Fish Salting Factory (ruins)
The Roman fish salting
factory ruins in Sines are a rare and well-preserved example of
industrial archaeology from the 1st century AD, located next to the
eastern wall of the town’s medieval castle.
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Discovered in 1990, these structures were part of a larger Roman
complex dedicated to the production of fish-based products, especially
garum, a fermented fish sauce widely consumed across the Roman
Empire.
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The site was restored and opened to the public through a project
completed between 2016 and 2018, funded by the European Regional
Development Fund. The ruins include tanks and vats used for salting
and fermenting fish, and their musealisation was designed to protect
the site while making it accessible for educational and cultural
tourism. This initiative not only preserved a significant piece of
Roman heritage but also integrated it into the broader historical
narrative of Sines, enhancing the town’s cultural offerings.
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See more at
Castle of Sines - Wikipedia.
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Photograph by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Castle of Sines
The Castle of Sines is a medieval fortress
built in the 14th century to defend the southwestern Portuguese coast.
It is historically significant as the birthplace of Vasco da Gama and
offers panoramic views over the Atlantic from its elevated position in
the town center.
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Construction of the castle began under King Pedro I around 1362,
primarily to protect the town from pirate attacks and foreign
invasions. It played a defensive role during the Age of Discoveries
and was closely linked to Portugal’s maritime expansion. Vasco da
Gama, born in Sines around 1469, is believed to have lived in the
castle during his early years. Over time, the structure underwent
several modifications, especially during the reign of King João V,
when decorative elements such as painted ceilings and royal insignia
were added.
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Today, the castle retains key architectural features including its
battlemented walls, masonry turrets, and the keep with twin windows.
The Alcaide-Mor Palace, once the residence of the castle’s governor,
is also part of the complex. Inside, visitors can explore a small
museum dedicated to Vasco da Gama and the town’s history. The site is
open to the public and serves as a cultural venue, offering
exhibitions and events that highlight Sines’ historical and maritime
heritage. Its location near the town’s main square makes it a central
and accessible landmark for visitors.
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See more at
Castle of Sines - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Sines Museum and Vasco da Gama House
The Sines Museum and
Vasco da Gama House, located within the Castle of Sines, form a cultural
complex that highlights both the town’s local history and its connection
to the Age of Discoveries.
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Opened in 2008, the museum presents a modern exhibition space that
explores the 20th-century development of Sines, its ethnographic
roots, and archaeological heritage, including notable finds like the
Gaio Treasure and Visigothic stonework. The museum is housed in
restored castle buildings and includes educational services, guided
tours, and multimedia installations.
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The Vasco da Gama House, situated in the castle’s keep (Torre de Menagem), is dedicated to the life and voyages of the famous navigator.
Though few original artifacts remain, the space uses digital exhibits
to reconstruct da Gama’s biography, his role in Portuguese maritime
exploration, and the parts of the castle he once inhabited. This
immersive experience allows visitors to engage with the legacy of one
of Portugal’s most iconic historical figures in the very place he is
believed to have been born. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday,
typically from 10:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 17:00, though hours may
vary seasonally.
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See more at
Castle of Sines - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Main Church of the Savior or Main Church of Sines
The Main
Church of the Savior, also known as
Igreja Matriz de São Salvador, is one of the most historically
significant buildings in Sines.
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Originally constructed in the 15th century, it was rebuilt in the 18th
century in the Joanine Baroque style after suffering damage from
natural disasters and the passage of time. The church stands near the
Castle of Sines and features a simple yet imposing facade, a bell
tower, and a single nave interior. Its architectural style reflects
the transition from Gothic to Baroque, with clean lines and restrained
ornamentation.
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This church is closely tied to the early life of Vasco da Gama, who
received his tonsure there, marking his entry into the
religious-military Order of Santiago. Inside, visitors can find
azulejos, gilded woodwork, and religious sculptures that contribute to
its solemn atmosphere. The church remains active as a place of worship
and is classified as a Monument of Public Interest. Its elevated
position offers views over the town and the Atlantic, reinforcing its
role as both a spiritual and visual anchor in Sines.
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See more at
Igreja Matriz de Sines - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Statue of Vasco da Gama
Vasco da Gama, born in Sines around
1469, was a pivotal figure in global maritime history, known for leading
the first sea voyage from Europe to India. His legacy is honored in
Sines with a bronze statue inaugurated in 1970, prominently placed near
the castle overlooking the Atlantic.
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Vasco da Gama was the son of Estêvão da Gama, the town’s alcaide-mor,
and Isabel Sodré. He gained fame by commanding the 1497–1499
expedition that established a direct maritime link between Portugal
and India, reshaping global trade and European colonial ambitions.
Later appointed Viceroy of Portuguese India, he died in Cochin in
1524. His connection to Sines remained strong throughout his life, and
he requested to be titled Count of Vidigueira and Lord of Sines as
recognition for his achievements.
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The statue of Vasco da Gama in Sines stands in Largo Muro da Praia,
near the castle and facing the sea. It was the result of a
long-standing local desire to commemorate the explorer, with early
proposals dating back to the 19th century. The statue was finally
realized in the 20th century and serves as a symbolic tribute to da
Gama’s maritime legacy. Its location offers sweeping views of the bay
and is a popular stop for visitors exploring the town’s historical
core. The monument is not only a visual landmark but also a cultural
reminder of Sines’ role in the Age of Discoveries.
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See more at
Sines - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Adega de Sines
Adega de Sines is a long-established eatery
that has become a local favorite for its authentic Alentejo cuisine and
consistent quality.
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Despite the name suggesting a wine cellar, it functions as a
restaurant rather than a wine producer. The menu features classic
Portuguese dishes such as grilled sardines, chicken, pork, and
seafood, often served with fries or salad. Desserts like flan and
parfait are also popular. The restaurant offers a selection of house
wines, beer, and coffee, and is praised for its fast service and
reasonable prices. It has earned high ratings across platforms,
including a 4.5 on Google and 4.4 on Tripadvisor.
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The interior is modest and cozy, with a rustic charm that reflects its
early 20th-century origins. It is located just steps from the Sines
Castle and the Vasco da Gama Museum, making it a convenient stop for
visitors exploring the town’s historical sites. The restaurant is
often busy, especially during lunch and dinner hours, and while it
does not take reservations, guests are encouraged to wait for a table
due to its popularity. Adega de Sines is open for lunch and dinner,
typically from 12:00 to 15:00 and 18:30 to 21:30, though hours may
vary slightly. It is accessible to wheelchair users and suitable for
families and groups.
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See more at
Sines - Wikipedia.
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Castle of Sines Parking Lot → São Torpes Beach
Driving
route between Castle of Sines Parking Lot and São Torpes Beach.
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São Torpes Beach
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São Torpes Beach
Praia de São Torpes is the most
frequented beach in the Sines area, located just south of the town and
within the boundaries of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast
Natural Park.
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It is known for its long stretch of sand, reliable surf conditions,
and slightly warmer waters, which result from the nearby
thermoelectric power station that discharges heated water into the
sea. This feature makes the beach particularly attractive for
swimming, especially in cooler months. The beach is also a favorite
among surfers and bodyboarders, with a surf school operating on-site.
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Despite its proximity to industrial infrastructure, São Torpes
maintains a clean and inviting environment, earning Blue Flag status
for its water quality and amenities. It offers lifeguard services
during the summer, parking, and several beachside cafés and
restaurants. The beach is accessible and family-friendly, with a
relaxed atmosphere that appeals to both locals and tourists. Its
unique blend of natural beauty and industrial backdrop gives it a
distinctive character not commonly found along the Portuguese coast.
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See more at
Praia de São Torpes - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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São Torpes Beach → Porto Covo
Driving route between São
Torpes Beach and Porto Covo.
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Porto Covo
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Porto Covo
Porto Covo is a small coastal village in the
municipality of Sines, located about 13 kilometers south of the town
center.
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It is part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park
and is known for its whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and
traditional architecture. The village sits above a series of scenic
coves and beaches, including Praia Grande and
Praia dos Buizinhos, which are popular for swimming,
sunbathing, and exploring the rocky shoreline. The central square,
Praça Marquês de Pombal, is a focal point of local life, surrounded by
cafés and shops that reflect the relaxed pace of the region.
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In January 2026, Porto Covo became the first certified sustainable
tourism destination in the Alentejo region, recognized by Biosphere
Responsible Tourism. This certification highlights the village’s
efforts to balance tourism with environmental preservation and
cultural authenticity. Initiatives include promoting local traditions,
managing natural resources responsibly, and maintaining the ecological
integrity of the surrounding coastline. Porto Covo is also a key stop
along the Rota Vicentina, a network of walking trails that attract
hikers and nature lovers. Despite its growing popularity, the village
retains a quiet charm and a strong sense of identity rooted in its
fishing heritage and coastal setting.
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See more at
Porto Covo - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Pessegueiro Island
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Pessegueiro Island
Pessegueiro Island is a small, rocky
islet located just off the coast of Porto Covo, in the municipality of
Sines.
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It is part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park
and is known for its historical significance and natural beauty. The
island contains remnants of a Roman fish salting facility, indicating
its role in ancient trade networks, particularly in the production of
garum. In the 16th century, a fort was partially constructed on
the island as part of a coastal defense system, intended to work in
tandem with a fort on the mainland. Although the project was never
fully completed, the ruins remain a striking feature of the landscape.
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Today, the island is a protected area and a point of interest for
visitors exploring the Alentejo coast. It is visible from
Praia da Ilha do Pessegueiro, a nearby beach that offers
excellent views of the island and is popular for swimming and water
sports. During the summer, boat trips are sometimes available to the
island, allowing closer inspection of the fort and surrounding waters.
The area is also known for its legends, including tales of a submerged
city and stories linked to Saint Torpes, from whom the nearby beach of
São Torpes takes its name. The combination of archaeological interest,
scenic views, and local folklore makes Pessegueiro Island a
distinctive feature of the Sines coastline.
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See more at
Pessegueiro Island - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Porto Covo → Pessegueiro Island Beach
Driving route
between Porto Covo and Pessegueiro Island Beach.
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Pessegueiro Fort
Pessegueiro Fort, also known as
Forte de Nossa Senhora da Queimada, is a 17th-century coastal
fortification near Porto Covo, Sines.
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Built to defend against piracy, it forms part of a dual-fort system
with a counterpart on nearby Pessegueiro Island, though the original
plan to connect both with a breakwater was never completed.
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Construction of the fort began during the Iberian Union under King
Philip II of Spain around 1588 and was completed in 1690 under
Portuguese rule. Designed in a star-shaped layout with triangular
bastions and a sea-facing battery, the fort was intended to protect a
planned artificial port between the island and mainland. The 1755
earthquake caused significant damage to the structure, and although it
remained garrisoned until at least 1844, it eventually fell into
disuse. Today, the fort is classified as a Monument of Public Interest
and stands as a historical landmark overlooking
Praia da Ilha do Pessegueiro. While it is not regularly open to
the public, guided visits can be arranged through the local parish
council of Porto Covo.
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See more at
Fort Nossa Senhora da Queimada - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Pessegueiro Island Beach → Queimado Beach
Driving route
between Pessegueiro Island Beach and Queimado Beach.
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Queimado Beach
Praia do Queimado is a quiet,
undeveloped beach located just south of
Praia da Ilha do Pessegueiro, near Porto Covo in the municipality
of Sines.
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It is part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park
and is known for its raw, natural setting. The beach is accessible by
a dirt road and lacks infrastructure such as lifeguards, restrooms, or
food services, which helps preserve its secluded atmosphere. The sand
is coarse, the waves are strong, and the surrounding cliffs and dunes
give it a rugged charm that appeals to those seeking solitude and
unspoiled coastal scenery.
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The name Queimado, meaning burned, is tied to a local legend involving
a saint’s image brought from Pessegueiro Island that was allegedly
burned on this beach. The area is also intersected by the
Rota Vicentina, a long-distance hiking trail that draws walkers
through the region’s coastal landscapes. A small stream marks the
boundary between the municipalities of Sines and Odemira, adding to
the beach’s sense of remoteness. While not ideal for swimming or
family outings, Praia do Queimado offers a peaceful retreat for
nature lovers and those interested in the folklore and raw beauty of
the Alentejo coast.
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See more at
Porto Covo - Wikipedia.
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Photograph by Jules Verne Times Two, distributed under a CC-BY 4.0
license.
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Queimado Beach → Morgavel Dam
Driving route between
Queimado Beach and Morgavel Dam.
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Morgavel Dam
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Morgavel Dam
Morgavel Dam, located in the municipality of
Sines, is a zoned earthfill dam constructed on the Ribeira de Morgavel.
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Completed in 1980, it was designed primarily to supply water to the
Sines industrial complex and surrounding areas. The dam stands 52
meters high and stretches 2,700 meters in length, creating a reservoir
with a total capacity of 32.5 million cubic meters. The usable volume
is around 27 million cubic meters, and the reservoir spans
approximately 3.4 square kilometers when full. The project was
designed by Hidroprojecto and built by José Bento Pedroso & Filhos
under the supervision of the national water authority.
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Beyond its industrial function, the dam and its reservoir have become
a quiet destination for outdoor enthusiasts. A 16-kilometer loop trail
encircles the reservoir, attracting hikers and cyclists who enjoy the
peaceful rural scenery. The area is part of the EuroVelo 1 cycling
route and offers opportunities for birdwatching and nature
observation. While recreational activities like swimming and boating
are generally restricted due to the dam’s role in water supply, the
surrounding landscape provides a tranquil setting for low-impact
tourism and environmental appreciation.
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See more at
Barragem de Morgavel - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Morgavel Dam → Cercal do Alentejo
Driving route between
Morgavel Dam and Cercal do Alentejo.
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Cercal do Alentejo
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Parish Church of Our Lady of the Conception
The Parish
Church of Our Lady of the Conception in Cercal do Alentejo is a rural
baroque church built in the 18th century, likely replacing an earlier
place of worship.
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It reflects the architectural norms of the Order of Santiago and
stands out for its contrast between simple vernacular structure and
ornate rococo interior decoration.
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Located in the heart of Cercal do Alentejo, this church is dedicated
to Nossa Senhora da Conceição and serves as the main religious
building in the parish. Its architecture is rooted in Portuguese
vernacular traditions, with a straightforward exterior that harmonizes
with the rural surroundings. Inside, however, the church features
elaborate rococo elements, particularly in its altarpieces and
decorative motifs. The building’s design adheres to the construction
guidelines of the Order of Santiago da Espada, which historically
influenced religious architecture in the region. Though little is
known about the original structure it replaced, the current church has
become a central part of the town’s cultural and spiritual identity.
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See more at
Cercal do Alentejo - Wikipedia.
- Photograph by tjabeljan distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Cercal do Alentejo → Campilhas Dam
Driving route
between Cercal do Alentejo and Campilhas Dam.
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Campilhas Dam
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Campilhas Dam
Campilhas Dam is located in the municipality
of Santiago do Cacém, in the Setúbal district of Portugal.
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It was constructed on the Ribeira de Campilhas and inaugurated in 1954
as part of a broader initiative to support agricultural development in
the Alentejo region. The dam is a zoned earthfill structure, standing
35 meters high with a crest elevation of 111.5 meters. It forms a
reservoir with a total capacity of 27.2 million cubic meters, of which
26.2 million are usable. Initially, the dam also supported a small
hydroelectric plant with a capacity of 400 kilowatts, which operated
until 1970 and generated over 5 million kilowatt-hours before being
decommissioned.
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Today, the dam continues to serve irrigation and water supply
functions, supporting local agriculture through a network of canals
that extend over 44 kilometers. The reservoir and its surroundings
have also become a destination for recreational activities such as
fishing, hiking, and nature observation. Located inland but not far
from the beaches of Vila Nova de Milfontes and Pessegueiro Island, the
area offers a peaceful alternative to the coast. Although the
hydroelectric facility is no longer active, there have been
discussions about its potential reactivation. The dam remains an
important piece of infrastructure for the region’s rural economy and
environmental landscape.
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See more at
Barragem de Campilhas - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Alvesgaspar distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.
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Campilhas Dam → São Domingos
Driving route between
Campilhas Dam and São Domingos.
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São Domingos
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Church of Saint Dominic
The Church of Saint Dominic (Igreja de São Domingos) in Santiago do Cacém is a rural Manueline-style parish church that
preserves Gothic architectural elements and features from the late
Middle Ages.
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It is located in the parish of São Domingos and Vale de Água and
reflects the religious and cultural heritage of the region, with
influences from the Order of Santiago.
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The church’s structure includes a pointed arch portal and a high choir
window, both characteristic of Gothic design. Inside, it houses
several 17th- and 18th-century religious images, a Manueline holy
water font, and side altars from the 1700s. The pulpit’s wooden casing
is decorated with rococo reliefs, and the main chapel features an
ornate altarpiece. The building’s design emphasizes simplicity and
functionality, typical of rural churches associated with the Order of
Santiago, while its interior decoration reveals a later evolution
toward more elaborate artistic styles. The church remains a
significant local landmark and a testament to the layered
architectural history of the Alentejo region..
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See more at
São Domingos (Santiago do Cacém) - Wikipedia.
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São Domingos → Sines
Driving route between São Domingos
and Sines.
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Suggested Car Tour
Suggested Car Tour Map
Where to Stay in Sines
Hotels Map
Where to Eat in Sines
Restaurants Map
🍽️ Local Culinary Traditions
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🥖
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Bread
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Alentejo bread (pão alentejano) - Dense, rustic wheat bread
with a thick crust, often used in soups and stews
- Cornbread (broa de milho)
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🍲
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Soups
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Açorda de marisco - A bread-based soup with garlic,
coriander, olive oil, and mixed seafood
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Sopa de peixe - Hearty fish soup made with local catch,
tomatoes, and herbs
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🦞
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Seafood
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Feijoada de búzios ou marisco - A bean stew with whelks or
mixed seafood, rich in flavor and typical of the coast
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Arroz de marisco - Creamy seafood rice with prawns, clams,
mussels, and sometimes crab
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Limpets (lapas) - Often grilled or served in stews,
especially in summer
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🐟
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Fish Dishes
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Migas com peixe frito - Cornbread and cabbage mash served
with fried fish, blending inland and coastal flavors
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Salads with roe, cuttlefish, or whelks - Fresh and simple,
often served as starters
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🍗
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Meat Dishes
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Carne de porco à alentejana - Pork with clams, garlic, and
coriander, a classic Alentejo dish.
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Ensopado de borrego - Lamb stew with bread and herbs, more
common inland but found in Sines due to regional overlap
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🍰
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Sweets
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🏅 Vasquinhos - Almond-based cakes named in honor of
Vasco da Gama, a native of Sines
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🏅 Areias de Sines - Delicate, buttery biscuits with
a fine sugar coating, known for their refined simplicity
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🍷
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Wine
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Alentejo wines - Full-bodied reds and fresh whites from
nearby regions like Grândola and Santiago do Cacém
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Medronho - A strong fruit brandy made from the arbutus
berry, sometimes served after meals
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Where to Go to Bars and Pubs in Sines
Bars and Pubs Map
See Also
Source
