The municipality of Alcochete is located on the southern bank of the Tagus Estuary and is part of the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, benefiting from privileged access to the capital via the Vasco da Gama Bridge, as well as access to the North Motorway, IC 32 and the connection to the A2. The name Alcochete derives from the Arabic word “Alcaxete”, which means “oven”, an allusion to the riches resulting from the combustion of the wood abundant in the pine forests of this region. Human presence dates back to prehistoric times to ancient times, a fact proven by the archaeological remains found. Economic activity linked to fishing, river navigation and salt production was, at one time, the main driving force behind the municipality’s economic development. With the decreasing development, from the mid-20th century onwards, of road connections and the loss of economic importance of the River Tagus as a means of communication, these activities began to decline. Its proximity to the Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve, considered one of the most important wintering areas in Europe for several species of water birds, makes it an important place to visit and is, in itself, an attraction for nature lovers. In addition to its rich landscape, Alcochete has a fascinating cultural heritage. The Festa do Barrete Verde and das Salinas, held annually in August, is one of its highlights, as it pays tribute to the forcado, the campino and the salineiro, illustrious figures who make up the identity of the municipality.
he delightful old town of Alcochete is located on the south bank of the River Tagus, in close proximity to the Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve.
The ideal day-trip destination for visitors staying in Lisbon, its foundation dates right back to the 7th century after the Moors conquered Lisbon and its name derives from the Arabic word for kiln, as several have been found in the local area.
The journey across the river is a delightful one, running past some of the older parts of the capital such as the Alfama before heading off into the great Tagus river basin. The ferry arrives in Montijo, followed by a 5-kilometre bus or taxi ride north to Alcochete.
Evidence of human occupation in Alcochete and its environs dates back to the lower Paleolithic period, while the Roman presence in the area mostly extended along the banks of Ribeira das Enguias where traces of several ancient potteries exist, most notably at Porto dos Cacos in Herdade de Rio Frio where the production of amphorae (ceramic containers used to pack and transport fish preserves) have been unearthed.
Alcochete was an important royal retreat, with both King João I and King João II spending long periods here for rest and relaxation. More importantly, King Manuel I (creator of the Manueline architectural style) was born here and in 1515 (twenty years into his reign) he granted Alcochete its town charter at a time when Lisbon and was beginning to prosper during Portugal’s great Age of Discovery.
Founded in the mid-16th century, the Church of the Misericórdia was part of the palace where King Manuel I was born on the 1st of June 1469. Today, it houses the Museum of Sacred Art whose collection includes many old paintings and some rare archaeological finds.
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