Fatima, in the heart of the Portuguese way of being

Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary (Fatima)

Fatima, in the heart of the Portuguese way of being

Introduction to Fatima

Fatima, a town nestled in the heart of Portugal, holds profound significance.

While many topics can captivate visitors, Fatima’s rich history and cultural resonance require more than a brief mention.

The pivotal events of 1917, highlighted by the apparitions reported by three young shepherds, are essential to understanding Fatima.

Yet, these events alone do not encapsulate its importance.

Fatima transcends mere belief in these apparitions, revealing deep insights into Portuguese culture.

The Story of the Three Little Shepherds

Three shepherd children, Jacinta, Francisco, and Lucia, witnessed the apparitions of Fatima in 1917.

Lucia was ten, Francisco was eight, and Jacinta was seven.

These children, from humble agricultural backgrounds, were central to the Fatima narrative.

Despite their youth, their experiences have left an indelible mark on history.

Key Locations in Fatima

Fatima is located about 130 kilometers north of Lisbon. Today, it is accessible by a 1.5-hour car journey, but it was a full day’s travel in 1917.

The town had no more than 50 houses, with nearby Aljustrel, the shepherds’ birthplace, hosting even fewer.

Cova da Iria, where the apparitions occurred and the current Shrine of Fatima and Chapel of the Apparitions stand, was just another grazing field for the shepherds.

Cova da Iria and the Chapel of the Apparitions

Cova da Iria, the site of the apparitions, is now home to the Chapel of the Apparitions, built in 1919.

The shrine was erected on the site of the Holm oak tree where the apparitions were said to occur.

The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima

The grand Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima, with its first stone laid in 1928, stands as a testament to Fatima’s enduring significance.

Completed in 1953, it remains one of the most photographed landmarks in the area.

Chronology of the Fatima Apparitions

Before the Apparitions

Significant events leading up to the apparitions include the 1908 assassination of King Carlos I, the 1910 establishment of the Portuguese Republic, and the subsequent anticlerical policies.

The 1916 German declaration of war on Portugal further strained the nation’s political landscape.

During the Apparitions

The apparitions began on May 13, 1917, when the three shepherds reported seeing a woman in white on a Holm oak tree.

Subsequent monthly apparitions attracted growing crowds, culminating on October 13, 1917, with the famous “sun dance” witnessed by thousands.

After the Apparitions

Post-apparition events include the construction of the Chapel of the Apparitions in 1919 and the Basilica’s commencement in 1928.

The deaths of Francisco and Jacinta from the Spanish flu and Lucia’s long life dedicated to religious service further shaped Fatima’s legacy.

Personal Reflections on Fatima

Fatima’s phenomenon arose during a tumultuous period in Portuguese history, marked by widespread resentment against the anticlerical measures of the First Republic.

The deeply Catholic rural population, disconnected from urban secular ideals, found solace in the apparitions.

The Church, cautious and initially distant, gradually recognized and supported the events, culminating in the construction of worship sites.

Diverse Reactions and Enduring Impact

Reactions to Fatima have always been varied.

Believers and non-believers alike reported witnessing phenomena, fueling both veneration and skepticism.

Despite controversies, Fatima’s popular support affirmed Portugal’s Catholic identity during the early 20th century.

Conclusion: Embrace the Essence of Fatima

Fatima offers a unique lens into Portuguese culture and spirituality.

Whether you adhere to the cult or not, visiting Fatima provides a deeper understanding of Portugal’s intricate cultural fabric.

Explore the historical and spiritual significance of this remarkable town, and discover the profound narratives that continue to captivate visitors from around the world.

If you’re keen on this adventure or any other from my collection, don’t hesitate to reach out through my travel agency, Iberactive.

Have a pleasant visit,

David Monteiro

April 24, 2020December 6, 2024

Walking to Baleeira Beach, Sesimbra, Portugal

Walking to Baleeira Beach, Sesimbra, Portugal

With a sea landscape as my backdrop, walking to Baleeira Beach, offering the possibility of a swim in the ocean – it couldn’t be better.

This stroll provided me with an excellent photo opportunity and a much-needed distraction from my usual affairs.

Praia da Baleeira, situated between Sesimbra and Cabo Espichel, Portugal, is often touted as one of the secret beaches in the area.

While not exactly a secret, its somewhat elusive access means it remains relatively uncrowded.

Although the walk described here could be considerably shortened, the aim was also to propose a morning walk option.

Start at Espiga coffee shop

Park your car near the Espiga coffee shop at the entrance of Casais da Azóia.

Here, you can indulge in regional delicacies alongside the traditional Farinha Torrada cake.

Fresh bread is always available, making it an ideal spot for a pre-walk coffee.

The suggested trail to and from the beach forms a semi-circle, utilizing both circular paths and the initial trail for the return journey.

Initially, you’ll traverse a dirt road passing by houses before encountering a footpath and denser vegetation as you approach the sloping beach access.

Be cautious: the trail becomes steeper in this area, requiring careful footing due to its technical nature.

It’s strongly advised to wear boots for better ankle support, as downhill sections feature gravel that can be challenging with walking shoes.

Additionally, bring sandals for swimming, as the beach consists of pebbles rather than sand.

One of the beach’s notable advantages is its southern orientation, providing shelter from northern winds.

Walking to Baleeira Beach details

– Length: 5,5Km
– Elevation gain/loss: 220m (to both ways)
– Kind of terrain: dirt and gravel
– Average duration: 2 hours non-stop

If you want to embark on this adventure and others like it, you can contact me through my company, Iberactive.

Have fun,
David Monteiro

April 18, 2020December 2, 2024

Walking from Burgau to Salema, Algarve, Portugal

A perfect walking trail runs from Burgau to Salema along the coast, which can be combined with the Lagos/Burgau trail described here.

The terrain resembles that detailed in the above article, with the sea forming the backdrop.

Why opt for this route?

The reasons are straightforward:

Burgau Beach

A small fishing beach boasts magnificent white sand.

Within the boundaries of the Natural Park of Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina, it experiences less urban pressure, resulting in greater vegetation cover.

We have the photographic landscape of Ponta da Almadena

While not constituting a cape, it extends as an arm of land into the sea, affording us a broad, unobstructed view.

Almadena Fort

It extends as an arm of land into the sea, providing us with a wide-open view, despite not being a cape.

Boca do Rio

Today, it remains a quiet beach, yet it once served as a “Roman villa,” and traces of this ancient settlement still linger there.

Salema beach

A very family-friendly ambiance characterizes this typical small fishing beach.

As mentioned earlier, this trail is suitable for those unaccustomed to walking.

When combined with the Lagos/Burgau trail, it becomes an excellent option for those who regularly engage in walking.

Have fun,

David Monteiro

April 17, 2020December 2, 2024

Roman temple of Évora and Quintus Sertorius, Alentejo, Portugal

Roman temple of Evora and Quintus Sertorius, Alentejo, Portugal

Portuguese often cite the Roman temple of Evora, in the Alentejo region, as the Temple of Diana.

The temple wasn’t dedicated to any god but honored Emperor Augustus.

Despite this, many Portuguese still misunderstand.

Various sources state Roman general Quintus Sertorius built the temple in the 1st century AD.

However, this is another urban myth.

The temple was built in the late 1st century AD, while Sertorius lived between the 2nd and 1st centuries BC.

Nonetheless, Sertorius’s significance to Évora’s history requires discussion, which I’ll address later.

Quintus Sertorius

Quintus Sertorius’s history misleads many.

He returned to Hispania around 80 BC, aiding the Lusitanians.

Sertorius launched a campaign to Romanize Hispanic people.

He established a school in Osca for noble children.

His subordinate Perperna conspired against him.

This led to Sertorius’s assassination.

Viriathus’ death allowed Pompey to conquer the Iberian Peninsula.

Despite misunderstandings, Sertorius remained loyal to Rome.

Even today, Évora’s town hall stands in Sertorius Square.

The Roman temple of Evora

The Roman temple of Evora and citadel took about 200 years to build, and they were supplied water by an aqueduct.

The temple’s construction utilized Estremoz marble, possibly selected for its resemblance to Carrara marble.

Estremoz, located roughly 50 km north of Évora, is now reachable by car in about 40 minutes.

Additionally, granite from the outskirts of Évora was incorporated into the temple’s design.

Following the Roman occupation, the temple’s history unfolded in several stages:

- In the 5th century, with the rise of Christianization, the temple gradually lost significance and was abandoned.
- In the 6th century, barbarian invasions damaged the temple, and the spaces between columns were filled with a wall of unknown purpose.
- By the 8th century, after the Moorish invasion in 711, the temple possibly transformed into a fortified mosque.
- In the 12th century, following the conquest of Évora in 1165, the temple may have functioned as a church while a new one was constructed.
- The temple’s importance waned in subsequent centuries, leading to various uses such as a safe, granary, and butcher.
- Restoration work commenced in the 19th century, restoring the temple to its former glory.
- In 1910, it was designated a National Monument.
- In 1986, UNESCO listed it as a World Heritage Site as part of the Évora Historic Center.

The Roman Temple of Évora is one of the best-preserved Roman buildings on the Iberian Peninsula.

It embodies nearly 2000 years of existence and historical events and serves as an integral part of the city’s identity.

For many Portuguese, it remains the most iconic symbol of Évora despite potentially more visually stunning monuments found elsewhere in Roman centers.

Is it worthwhile to visit the Roman temple of Evora?

With so much to see and taste in Évora, I doubt anyone would visit solely for this monument.

Additionally, within proximity to Évora, you can explore remarkable wine cellars like Herdade do Freixo.

There will always be plenty of reasons to justify a visit to Évora.

You can join me for Evora’s visit. Please access here for more information.

Have a nice day.

David Monteiro

April 17, 2020December 2, 2024

Wine cellar Herdade do Frexo, Alentejo, Portugal

Wine cellar Herdade do Frexo, Alentejo, Portugal

Discover the Enchanting Herdade do Freixo Wine Cellar

Located in the heart of Alentejo, Herdade do Freixo Wine Cellar offers a unique blend of universal architecture and the region’s captivating landscape.

As you step onto the estate, the youthful vineyards greet you, hinting at the promising wines they produce.

Although I was accustomed to northern vineyards, I immediately noticed the well-organized terroir of Herdade do Freixo.

Architectural Marvel

The first striking feature is the innovative architectural design of the cellar.

The building is ingeniously buried underground to take advantage of the natural ambient temperature, creating an optimal environment for wine storage.

This design also includes an intriguing chimney, whose purpose adds a layer of mystery and functionality to the structure.

The design ingeniously buries the building underground to take advantage of the natural ambient temperature, creating an optimal environment for wine storage.

A Warm Alentejo Welcome

True to the Alentejo spirit, the team at Herdade do Freixo welcomes visitors with genuine warmth and hospitality.

I went there for the first time on a consulting job, scouting for a winery that would fit an active tourism tour.

The professionalism and friendliness of the staff made a lasting impression, enhancing the overall experience.

Unforgettable Winery Visit

I stepped into the cellar and was instantly captivated by its interior.

The design is reminiscent of iconic structures like the Guggenheim, with fine-tuned lines and a natural flow that makes every explanation seem redundant.

The cellar’s design respects the landscape, creating a majestic and serene atmosphere.

Among modern wineries, Herdade do Freixo stands out as an architectural masterpiece.

Awards and Recognition

Herdade do Freixo has earned numerous architectural prizes, celebrating its innovative and environmentally harmonious design.

The project, led by architect Frederico Valsassina, showcases the perfect blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The building, constructed 40 meters deep, seamlessly integrates into the landscape, demonstrating a profound respect for nature.

Alentejo Wines: A Personal Favorite

This wine cellar sits in Alentejo, one of my favorite Portuguese wine regions.

The estate spans 1,000 hectares, with 26 hectares dedicated to vineyards featuring both national and international grape varieties.

The careful selection of these varieties results in wines that embody the region’s rich flavors and traditions.

Distinguishing Herdade do Freixo from Herdade do Freixo do Meio

It’s essential not to confuse Herdade do Freixo with Herdade do Freixo do Meio, another estate in the region.

Each offers unique contributions and deserves individual appreciation for its role in Portuguese culture.

Exploring the Region

The wine cellar’s proximity to Évora allows visitors to explore this historic city, known for its cultural and architectural significance.

Visiting Herdade do Freixo can perfectly complement a tour of Évora’s many attractions.

Conclusion

Herdade do Freixo Wine Cellar is more than just a place to taste exquisite wines; it’s an architectural gem that honors the landscape of Alentejo.

The dedication to sustainable and innovative design, coupled with the warm hospitality of the region, makes it a must-visit destination.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, Herdade do Freixo offers an enriching and unforgettable experience.

Join me for a tour at Iberactive.com

David Monteiro

Carpe diem,

David Monteiro

April 14, 2020December 2, 2024

Azorean tea and its origin, Azores, Portugal

Discovering the Origins of Azorean Tea

The Unique Heritage of Azorean Tea

Did you know that until recently, Azorean tea was the only truly European tea?

The lush islands of the Azores, a beautiful archipelago in Portugal, have been cultivating tea since the 19th century.

Despite the emergence of tea plantations on Portugal’s mainland, the story of Azorean tea remains unique and fascinating.

The Chinese Connection

China’s ancient trade relations with Portugal were pivotal in introducing tea to the Azores.

Relax, this tale isn’t about modern politics but historical trade exchanges that have shaped culinary cultures across the globe.

In the 16th century, Portuguese navigators, exploring and trading far and wide, brought back exotic goods from Asia, including the orange from China.

From China to Portugal: A Trade Odyssey

The Portuguese were adept at integrating foreign products into their culture.

For example, they introduced chili from Brazil to Asia, leading to curry creation.

Similarly, Europe owes its tea-drinking habit to the Portuguese.

When Catherine of Braganza married England’s King Charles II in the 17th century, she brought the custom of afternoon tea with her, spreading it throughout Europe.

During their exchanges with southern China, the Portuguese introduced sweet potatoes, green beans, and lettuce to the region.

In return, they brought oranges, which thrived particularly well in the Algarve, Portugal’s southern region.

These oranges later made their way to the Azores, becoming a significant agricultural product.

The Plague of Oranges and the Rise of Tea

In 1834, two lemon trees brought to the island of Faial carried the Coccus Cochonilha pest, devastating Azorean orange production.

This crisis, compounded by a disease known as “the tear,” necessitated the search for new crops.

Enter tea, pineapple, and tobacco, which found a suitable environment in the Azores’ fertile soil and mild climate.

Introducing Tea Cultivation in the Azores

Though the tea plants thrived, the Azoreans lacked the knowledge to process them into tea.

This changed in the late 18th century thanks to José do Canto, a prominent landowner and intellectual.

Through the Sociedade Promotora da Agricultura Micaelense, he secured the expertise of Chinese tea makers, Lau-a-Pau and Lau-a-Teng, who arrived in São Miguel on March 5, 1878.

Their expertise revolutionized tea production in the Azores, training numerous farmers in cultivation and processing techniques.

The Fascination of Cultures

The arrival of the Chinese experts was a cultural marvel for the isolated community of São Miguel.

The mutual curiosity and knowledge exchange between the Azoreans and the Chinese tea makers enriched both cultures.

By the early 20th century, five major tea producers and about forty smaller ones were thriving in the Azores.

Today’s Azorean Tea

Today, only two tea companies, Gorreana and Porto Formoso, remain, both located on São Miguel island.

Visiting these factories is a must for any traveler. You can explore the plantations, witness the production processes, and experience the enduring aroma of tea.

Remarkably, the original machinery is still in use, providing a nostalgic glimpse into the past.

Future Insights Await

In this article, I’ve left several intriguing questions unanswered:

How did tea spread throughout Europe?

Why is the Portuguese word for tea “chá” so different?

How did Portuguese oranges influence English marmalade?

What types of tea are produced in the Azores, and are there other tea plantations in Portugal?

Stay tuned for future articles that will delve into these fascinating topics.

I hope you enjoyed this journey through the history of Azorean tea.

Join me for a tour

I hope to guide you through this theme shortly.

If you’re interested in experiencing this adventure or any other from my repertoire, feel free to contact me via my travel agency, Iberactive

David Monteiro

Plantation

Harvest

Production

Camellia sinensis

One of the two tea factories, Azores, Portugal

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April 10, 2020December 2, 2024

São Jorge Castle, Lisbon, Portugal

Sao Jorge castle - Lisbon view and suggested walk

Sao Jorge Castle, Lisbon, Portugal

The Sao Jorge Castle overlooks Lisbon from its hilltop perch.

Cobbled sidewalks beneath your feet reveal the meticulous craftsmanship of its construction.

Each stone cube, carefully laid, measures no more than three fingers wide, held together by compact sand that both unites them and allows water to seep through.

Adorned with caravels, waves, and geometric shapes in darker stones, the castle’s light-colored stones contrast with occasional hues of dark pink or blue.

Amidst 18th-century architecture, the castle stands as a magnificent protector of the city, dominating the skyline.

Long lines to visit Sao Jorge Castle

Should you brave the long lines to visit? That’s the question.

Fernando Pessoa, the renowned Portuguese poet, famously wrote, “Everything is worthwhile if the soul is not small.”

However, one’s perspective on worthiness depends on personal interests and available time.

I’ve previously explored this question in another article.

If your interests lie in urban art and you have only two days in Lisbon, there are likely better options than the Castle.

Nonetheless, consider engaging a guide for a richer experience if you want to visit.

The Castle of São Jorge holds more than meets the eye.

Without a guide, you’ll see a medieval castle with a stunning view over Lisbon and the Tagus river.

Perhaps you’ll do some research beforehand or bring along a tourist guidebook, discovering that the Castle was conquered by our first king, D. Afonso Henriques, in 1147.

That’s perfectly acceptable.

However, with guiding services, you’ll interpret the breathtaking view and delve into centuries of the monument’s existence, including sieges, earthquakes, and monumental building works.

I won’t delve into the Castle’s entire history here—it’s too vast for this context, and I’m not a historian.

There are excellent books on the subject.

Alternative ways to learn about Lisbon’s castle

Moreover, history books aren’t the only valuable reading before visiting a site.

Novels can ignite our imagination, enhancing tourist experiences.

Picture the Castle’s conquest by the Moors through ‘History of the Siege of Lisbon’ by José Saramago.

Explore key moments in the Castle’s history, offering insights into Lisbon’s diverse wartime scenarios.

Roman Period (BC)

- 138 – Decimus Junius Brutus, a Roman, conquers the future Olisipo (Lisbon), previously Felicitas Julia. He discovers a Celtiberian fortification, enhanced by the Romans.

Post-Roman era witnesses Barbarian and Christian occupations:

- 411 to 418 – Alans occupy without significant resistance.
- 418 to 453 – Visigoths, serving the Roman Empire, conquer the city. Alans retreat to North Africa.
- 457 – Suevi seize the town after tumultuous clashes and shifting alliances with Rome.
- 460 – under King Theodoric II, Visigoths recapture Olissipo by Emperor Avito’s order.
- 469 – Suevi, led by King Remismundo, reclaims Olissipo.
- During the 5th century, the town adopts names like Ulixbuna or Ulixbona.
- 585 – Visigoth King Leovigildo asserts control.
- 6 ?? – Construction of a new fortification (15 hectares / 37 acres) and initial Christian churches commence.

Muslim occupation

- 714/719 – Abd al Aziz Muça’s Muslim army seizes the city, renaming it Ulisbona, Al-Lishbuna, Aschbouna, or Al-Ushbuna, marking the start of Muslim rule.
- 798 – Afonso II (Christian) sacks the town.
- 800 (beginning) – Period of confusion.
- 844- Vikings, with over 100 ships, besiege the Castle for 10 days, damaging walls and looting the area.
- 857 – Another Viking assault fails, leaving scant records.
- 966 – Third Viking attack, repelled by strong Muslim resistance. The Vikings are defeated near Silves, Algarve.
- The city’s name evolves to Lisipona, Lisibona, Lisbona, Lixboa.
- 956 – Ordonho III, king of Leon, plunders Lisbon, damaging the walls.
- 1015/1093 – Moorish taifas of Badajoz and Seville alternately dominate the city.
- 1060 – King Fernando Magno of Leon briefly conquers Lisbon.
- 1109 – Lisbon falls into the hands of Sir, son of Abu Becre, ushering in a period of stability until 1147.

Christian occupation

- 1147 – D. Afonso Henriques, Portugal’s first king, conquers the Castle.
- 1384 – King Juan I of Castile, Spain, lays siege to the Castle. The Spanish army abandons the siege due to a plague outbreak, which devastates the troops and the king.
- No significant wartime events occur after these dates.

Modern era

- In the 1940s, significant rehabilitation efforts are undertaken on the Castle.

To conclude

Romans, barbarians, Moors, and Christians have both constructed and razed this fortress for nearly two millennia.

Some tales of bravery endure, like that of Martim Moniz, a Portuguese captain who sacrificed himself by blocking a door during the Castle’s conquest in 1147, allowing his troops to enter.

Yet, some shameful acts by the Christians during that same event linger as a reminder to avoid repeating such mistakes.

São Jorge Castle is one of the city’s most visited monuments. Whether you choose to explore its history is yours to decide. Regardless, seize the day.

Do you want to learn more about this subject? Please join me for one of my Private Tours.

Enjoy your day.

David Monteiro

PS: In Portuguese, the correct spelling is São Jorge, not Sao, as written in this text. However, I’ve simplified it for your convenience, considering keyboard limitations.