Explore Comporta
Explore History
Comporta is home to a port balanced on stilts, untouched by time and suspended between sky and sea. Located in Carrasqueira on the Sado River who’s starting Alcácer do Sal. This small fishing port is built on a jumble of rough-and-ready landing stages made of openwork planks that rest on stilts.
A unique architecture in Europe
This outstanding example of popular architecture, the only one of its kind in Europe, was constructed during the 1950s and 1960s. The port acted as an anchorage for the fishing boats in the region, a purpose it continues to fulfil to this day.
It was fishing, especially for oysters, that led to significant growth in the Carrasqueira area. The port was created specifically so that fisherman would always have access to their boats, no matter what the tides were doing.
In fact, when the tide is low, about ten meters of mud (or sometimes as much a hundred!) separate the land from the water. Because of this, the very first fisherman hammered in stilts at the edge of the tidal wall (which protects the farmland), and put a few planks on top. The fishermen who came after them then worked together to pile up new stilts and planks. It was an evolving method of construction that gradually extended the jumble of stilts and planks by several hundreds of meters. This is how the unusual jetty came into existence, and today, it is one of the most visited places in the municipality of Alcácer.
A paradise for lovers of photography
Depending on the tides, the boats either float on the water or are sometimes buried in the mud. A large number of wooden cabins, small in size and listed as national heritage buildings, run along the jetty and enhance the beauty of the landscape.
For photography lovers, this is the perfect location
41 lokalkjente anbefaler
Cais Palafítico da Carrasqueira
Comporta is home to a port balanced on stilts, untouched by time and suspended between sky and sea. Located in Carrasqueira on the Sado River who’s starting Alcácer do Sal. This small fishing port is built on a jumble of rough-and-ready landing stages made of openwork planks that rest on stilts.
A unique architecture in Europe
This outstanding example of popular architecture, the only one of its kind in Europe, was constructed during the 1950s and 1960s. The port acted as an anchorage for the fishing boats in the region, a purpose it continues to fulfil to this day.
It was fishing, especially for oysters, that led to significant growth in the Carrasqueira area. The port was created specifically so that fisherman would always have access to their boats, no matter what the tides were doing.
In fact, when the tide is low, about ten meters of mud (or sometimes as much a hundred!) separate the land from the water. Because of this, the very first fisherman hammered in stilts at the edge of the tidal wall (which protects the farmland), and put a few planks on top. The fishermen who came after them then worked together to pile up new stilts and planks. It was an evolving method of construction that gradually extended the jumble of stilts and planks by several hundreds of meters. This is how the unusual jetty came into existence, and today, it is one of the most visited places in the municipality of Alcácer.
A paradise for lovers of photography
Depending on the tides, the boats either float on the water or are sometimes buried in the mud. A large number of wooden cabins, small in size and listed as national heritage buildings, run along the jetty and enhance the beauty of the landscape.
For photography lovers, this is the perfect location
The Rice Museum is located at the entrance to the village of Comporta in Portugal. It is devoted to local rice growing and related traditions. In this cultural space, we go back in time to better understand the impact of this atypical culture in the history and development of “Herdade da Comporta”.
The museum is located in the old rice husking factory dating back to 1952.
In addition to this factory, there were several workshops, with a collection of tools for locksmithing, carpentry and forging. These workshops were intended for the maintenance of the factory, the housing of the workers, the office, the canteen, the butcher shop, the bakery, the church and contributed to the production of instruments and vehicles for the agricultural activities. Thus the domain could be autonomous until the end of the 1960s.
After this rich cultural and historical tour, we recommend having a drink or a meal at the restaurant located next to the museum, and known by the same name.
Contact the museum to schedule a visit (45 minutes):
+ 351 265 499 900
museudoarroz@herdadedacomporta.pt
Espaço Museológico "Museu do Arroz"
The Rice Museum is located at the entrance to the village of Comporta in Portugal. It is devoted to local rice growing and related traditions. In this cultural space, we go back in time to better understand the impact of this atypical culture in the history and development of “Herdade da Comporta”.
The museum is located in the old rice husking factory dating back to 1952.
In addition to this factory, there were several workshops, with a collection of tools for locksmithing, carpentry and forging. These workshops were intended for the maintenance of the factory, the housing of the workers, the office, the canteen, the butcher shop, the bakery, the church and contributed to the production of instruments and vehicles for the agricultural activities. Thus the domain could be autonomous until the end of the 1960s.
After this rich cultural and historical tour, we recommend having a drink or a meal at the restaurant located next to the museum, and known by the same name.
Contact the museum to schedule a visit (45 minutes):
+ 351 265 499 900
museudoarroz@herdadedacomporta.pt
The Roman ruins of Tróia are located on a sandy peninsula, 10 minutes from Comporta . This site surrounded as it is, by the ocean, was once an important complex specialising in the production of salted and pickled fish. It was built in the first half of the first century and was occupied continuously until the sixth century.
Salt fish and fish sauces were prepared here drawing upon the abundance of fish in the Atlantic Ocean and the outstanding salt produced on the Sado River. These iconic products were then sold throughout the Empire.
The site gradually became a complex urban area. It was composed not only of many “salting factories”, but also of houses, other factories, thermal baths, and the mausoleum and necropolis characteristic of Roman civilisation.
Excavations carried out in 1956 uncovered Roman baths covering 450 m2. There are hot, temperate and cool water pools and an underground heating system, as well as a swimming pool and a sports arena.
This magnificent complex has been classified as a “Monumento Nacional” since 1910. It hosts archaeological exhibitions, guided tours, equestrian shows and other themed events throughout the year.
A timeless and unmissable place to visit, offering a real insight into the unique history of the Comporta region.
Contact
Estrada Nacional 253 – Troia
+351 265 499 400 / arqueologia@troiaresort.pt
18 lokalkjente anbefaler
Ruínas Romanas de Tróia - Portugal
7570 TróiaThe Roman ruins of Tróia are located on a sandy peninsula, 10 minutes from Comporta . This site surrounded as it is, by the ocean, was once an important complex specialising in the production of salted and pickled fish. It was built in the first half of the first century and was occupied continuously until the sixth century.
Salt fish and fish sauces were prepared here drawing upon the abundance of fish in the Atlantic Ocean and the outstanding salt produced on the Sado River. These iconic products were then sold throughout the Empire.
The site gradually became a complex urban area. It was composed not only of many “salting factories”, but also of houses, other factories, thermal baths, and the mausoleum and necropolis characteristic of Roman civilisation.
Excavations carried out in 1956 uncovered Roman baths covering 450 m2. There are hot, temperate and cool water pools and an underground heating system, as well as a swimming pool and a sports arena.
This magnificent complex has been classified as a “Monumento Nacional” since 1910. It hosts archaeological exhibitions, guided tours, equestrian shows and other themed events throughout the year.
A timeless and unmissable place to visit, offering a real insight into the unique history of the Comporta region.
Contact
Estrada Nacional 253 – Troia
+351 265 499 400 / arqueologia@troiaresort.pt
History of the city
Alcácer do Sal in Alentejo was founded more than a thousand years before Christ by the Phoenicians. Its Roman name was Salacia. It had a significant economic importance because its unrivalled location on the banks of the Sado River facilitated the flow of agricultural products produced on the land (wheat, olive oil and wine) to other places in the Mediterranean occupied by the Romans. Thus, Alcácer was one of the most important cities in the peninsular West possessed an inland port and was known for its salt production and for the industries derived from curing and fish paste.
During the period of Arab rule (from the 8th century onwards), Alcácer do Sal was the capital of Al-Kassr province. The walls of the old fortification were reinforced and the castle was also built at that time. Although it has lost its military and commercial importance, Alcácer do Sal retains its brilliant beauty and is now developing in tourism.
What to do in Alcácer do Sal?
Strolling through the streets of the old city
A walk in Alcácer do Sal is the best way to discover the most charming part of this city. Stroll through its small streets and numerous stairs leading to the castle to admire a spectacular view. On the way you can visit many interesting monuments such as the Church of Santa Maria do Castelo, the Chapel of Senhor dos Mártires, the Church of Santo António, the Church of Santiago and the Municipal Museum of Archaeology.
Admiring the reflection of the city on the river
The sunset is a moment not to be missed in Alcacer do Sal. To enjoy the beautiful colours on the bridges, cross the Sado River and sit on the other side of the river. Here you have an incredible view of the river, the two bridges, the boats, the castle and the white houses. This is the perfect time to take pictures.
Navigating the estuary
The municipality organizes cruises along the Sado River in summer. These day trips, or half-day trips, take place on board the old sailboats Pinto Luisa or Amendoeira.
During the one-day cruise, you will cross the Sado estuary and moor in Setúbal or on the beautiful beaches of the Tróia Peninsula. With any luck, you’ll come across the dolphins that are the scourge of fishing boats in the estuary as they chew their nets to steal their catch!
Alcácer do Sal Castle
The name of the city is linked to this castle: Alcácer is a derivative of the word “Al-Kassr” which means castle in Arabic. The castle, surrounded by two walls, has a typical Portuguese pousada and an archaeological museum that tells the 26 centuries of history of the city.
From the top of the castle the view is breathtaking. We discover the narrow streets and bleached houses that flow into Sado, the bridges and the famous green rice fields of the region that run on the horizon.
In the castle you will also have access to an archaeological crypt. It is considered one of the largest in the country. The structures of the Roman period and Islamic occupation are discovered, covering a considerable area.
The church of the convent of Saint António
The convent was founded in 1524. You can discover a pretty classic style church. The dome, in Renaissance style, is remarkable.
The church of Senhor dos Martíres
It is one of the oldest Christian sanctuaries in Portugal. It is known for the mysterious emblems engraved on its walls and for its various chapels that open through the central body of the temple.
The Misericórdia Church
According to an inscription on one of the portals, this church was consecrated in 1547. What is out of the ordinary is the choir and the nave, which are integrated in the same space. The interior walls are decorated with stucco and azulejos painted in the 1600s.
The famous painter Francisco Flamengo painted the ceiling fresco in 1895. It represents the three virtues of hope, faith and charity.
Eat at A ESCOLA restaurant
33 lokalkjente anbefaler
Alcácer do Sal
History of the city
Alcácer do Sal in Alentejo was founded more than a thousand years before Christ by the Phoenicians. Its Roman name was Salacia. It had a significant economic importance because its unrivalled location on the banks of the Sado River facilitated the flow of agricultural products produced on the land (wheat, olive oil and wine) to other places in the Mediterranean occupied by the Romans. Thus, Alcácer was one of the most important cities in the peninsular West possessed an inland port and was known for its salt production and for the industries derived from curing and fish paste.
During the period of Arab rule (from the 8th century onwards), Alcácer do Sal was the capital of Al-Kassr province. The walls of the old fortification were reinforced and the castle was also built at that time. Although it has lost its military and commercial importance, Alcácer do Sal retains its brilliant beauty and is now developing in tourism.
What to do in Alcácer do Sal?
Strolling through the streets of the old city
A walk in Alcácer do Sal is the best way to discover the most charming part of this city. Stroll through its small streets and numerous stairs leading to the castle to admire a spectacular view. On the way you can visit many interesting monuments such as the Church of Santa Maria do Castelo, the Chapel of Senhor dos Mártires, the Church of Santo António, the Church of Santiago and the Municipal Museum of Archaeology.
Admiring the reflection of the city on the river
The sunset is a moment not to be missed in Alcacer do Sal. To enjoy the beautiful colours on the bridges, cross the Sado River and sit on the other side of the river. Here you have an incredible view of the river, the two bridges, the boats, the castle and the white houses. This is the perfect time to take pictures.
Navigating the estuary
The municipality organizes cruises along the Sado River in summer. These day trips, or half-day trips, take place on board the old sailboats Pinto Luisa or Amendoeira.
During the one-day cruise, you will cross the Sado estuary and moor in Setúbal or on the beautiful beaches of the Tróia Peninsula. With any luck, you’ll come across the dolphins that are the scourge of fishing boats in the estuary as they chew their nets to steal their catch!
Alcácer do Sal Castle
The name of the city is linked to this castle: Alcácer is a derivative of the word “Al-Kassr” which means castle in Arabic. The castle, surrounded by two walls, has a typical Portuguese pousada and an archaeological museum that tells the 26 centuries of history of the city.
From the top of the castle the view is breathtaking. We discover the narrow streets and bleached houses that flow into Sado, the bridges and the famous green rice fields of the region that run on the horizon.
In the castle you will also have access to an archaeological crypt. It is considered one of the largest in the country. The structures of the Roman period and Islamic occupation are discovered, covering a considerable area.
The church of the convent of Saint António
The convent was founded in 1524. You can discover a pretty classic style church. The dome, in Renaissance style, is remarkable.
The church of Senhor dos Martíres
It is one of the oldest Christian sanctuaries in Portugal. It is known for the mysterious emblems engraved on its walls and for its various chapels that open through the central body of the temple.
The Misericórdia Church
According to an inscription on one of the portals, this church was consecrated in 1547. What is out of the ordinary is the choir and the nave, which are integrated in the same space. The interior walls are decorated with stucco and azulejos painted in the 1600s.
The famous painter Francisco Flamengo painted the ceiling fresco in 1895. It represents the three virtues of hope, faith and charity.
Eat at A ESCOLA restaurant