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Ferreira do Alentejo |
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Ferreira do Alentejo, formerly known as Ferreira do Campo d'Ourique, is located in a fertile region through which the Sado river flows, up on a plateau full grain fields, rice paddies and wooded areas, mainly with various species of oak trees including cork oaks. Nothing remains of the mythical Roman settlement of Singa, and even the castle of the Order of Santiago knights no longer exists. However, we can find more recent, and no less captivating, historical heritage in the streets of Ferreira.
The early 20th century mansions of the gentlemen farmers incorporate surprising architectural features, particularly the windows, staircases, terraces, attics and tiling details. Beside these grandiose residences are the whitewashed cottages - painted with blue trim, and old water spouts in gardens with shady trees. There is not much work at the smithy any longer but with some luck the blacksmith can be seen shoeing a donkey or horse.
One can take a welcome rest over at the Fonte Velha (Old Spring) where the water never stops flowing and the shade there is inviting. Visitors to Ferreira cannot forget its best showpiece, the small chapel of Santa Madalena, or calva rio, and the equally fine Misericordia Church with its Manueline style portal.
A trip through the area surrounding Ferreira is worthwhile. The parish church and a tiny bridge are evidence of the old history of the village of Alfundiio which is of Roman origin. Peroguarda has been described as the "most Portuguese village of the Lower Alentejo", but it is certainly one of the most Alentejan, in view of its immaculate brightness, produced by continuous whitewashing.
On the hottest days, a trip to the Odivelas dam can be a refreshing option, and in winter the dam attracts bird-watchers who can see species such as bald coots, ducks, herons and other waterfowl.
To remind you of your visit there are colourful handicraft articles: Alentejo style furniture or basket- work from Odivelas.
Courtesy of Regiao de Turismo da Planicie Dourada.
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Pictures of Ferreira do Alentejo |