In Serpa we find a territory historically marked by the direct relation with the river Guadiana and geographical location on the border with Spain. It is the Alentejo of large agricultural fields and rural estates, which were once considered the breadbasket of Portugal, such was the quantity of grain then produced, which fed the watermills of Guadiana, the great road of the South of the country, where they would be wisely transformed into valuable flour.
From the garden in front of the movie theatre, head North and turn into Rua da Abegoaria (street) leading you out of the urban centre, passing by the municipal sports hall. Cross the outer ring and enter the dirt road toward the Guadiana. Proceed straight ahead, crossing vast farmlands, and pass along the water collection of Horta dos Banhos, located in the place where an important Roman villa once existed, as confirmed by archaeological prospecting. After passing Monte da Caldeira and Monte da Repoila, start down by the new scenario of olive groves and cork oaks that will lead you to the abandoned Horto do Lala and Horto do José Garcia (vegetable gardens), where you can already spot the Guadiana river. Once by the river, continue to the left along a rural path that runs alongside its course towards Azenha da Ordem (watermill), a grinding mill in an excellent state of conservation. From the river, start a long and gentle climb through the fields of cork oak, passing the Monte de Melrinas and Monte do Gago, returning to the agricultural landscape. Continue through the road that enters Serpa by the Eira de São Pedro, with the chapel of this saint welcoming you.
Fichier associé:Download Route Map (362.06 KB)
