| ALCOCHETE |
The delightful old town of Alcochete
is located on the south bank of the River Tagus, near the Tagus
Estuary Nature Reserve. Salt has long-been one of the main industries
here, and saltpans can still be seen to the north and south
of the town.
The town's foundation dates back to the 7th century, after the
Moors conquered Lisbon. Its name derives from the Arabic word
for kiln, as there have been many found in the area.
Alcochete was an important royal retreat, with both João
I and João II spending long periods here for rest and
relaxation. King Manuel was born here in 1469.
What to see. Founded in the mid-16th century, the Church
of the Misericórdia was part of the palace where King
Manuel I was born. Today, it houses the Museum of Sacred Art.
The town's Gothic-Manueline parish church was built in honour
of John the Baptist and later classified as a national monument.
Inside are two interesting 18th-century tiled panels, while
two rare early 16th-century paintings can be seen in one of
the outbuildings.
Nearby. The Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve covers a vast
area of salt marshes, small islands and estuary waters. Besides
the flamingos that flock there in autumn and spring, it is a
very important breeding ground for water birds and other interesting
species. All the reserve's bird- and wildlife, including wild
bulls and horses, can be observed by boat on organised trips.
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| © 2007 Maisturismo |
