Mira d'Aire
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Mira d’Aire
Mira d’Aire Grottoare the largest caves in Portugal. Just 15km away from Fátima and 110km from Lisbon, this authentic underground cathedral awaits your visit. It spreads through 11km, but only 600m are allowed for visiting. There were officially opened in 1974 and have received over 6 million visitors.
Santarém
Santarém is host to a number of interesting churches and a popular garden with stunning views called “As Portas do Sol” which means “The Sun’s doorway”. This park is surrounded by the medieval wall that once surrounded the entire city. It has since spread out of these walls and grown.
The Santarém region, contrary to the Alentejo dryness, is convered in jumid watery plains perfect for rice growing, designated the “Lezíria”. In this region there are many typical foods and festivities. Golegã for example holds a very popular equestrian fair every November.
Sites to visit:
The Santarém Castle
Portas do Sol Garden and Lake
The Seminary of Our Lady of Conceição
Graça Church – tomb of Pedro Álvares Cabral (discoverer of Brasil)
The Almourol Castle
Tomar
City located on the margins of the River Nabão, belonging to the Ribatejo region, it was conquered by the first king of Portugal, from the Morrs in 1147 and later donated to the order of the Templars in 1159. Tomar is well known for its monuments, especially the Convent of Christ, but also for its innumerous historical buildings, archealogical relics and well manicured gardens.
Convent of Christ
Order of the Templar
Castle of Tomar
Church of Santa Maria do Olival