Photos

The delightful old town of Alcochete is located on the south bank of the River Tagus, near the Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve. Salt has long-been one of the main industries here, and saltpans can still be seen to the north and south of the town. The town's foundation dates back to the 7th century, after the Moors conquered Lisbon. Its name derives from the Arabic word for kiln, as there have been many found in the area. Alcochete was an important royal retreat, with both João I and João II spending long periods here for rest and relaxation. King Manuel was born here in 1469.
What to see. Founded in the mid-16th century, the Church of the Misericórdia was part of the palace where King Manuel I was born. Today, it houses the Museum of Sacred Art. The town's Gothic-Manueline parish church was built in honour of John the Baptist and later classified as a national monument. Inside are two interesting 18th-century tiled panels, while two rare early 16th-century paintings can be seen in one of the outbuildings.
Nearby. The Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve covers a vast area of salt marshes, small islands and estuary waters. Besides the flamingos that flock there in autumn and spring, it is a very important breeding ground for water birds and other interesting species. All the reserve's bird- and wildlife, including wild bulls and horses, can be observed by boat on organized trips.

On this photo you can take a view of part of the Vasco da Gama bridge that cross the Tagus River between the south margin and Lisboa.

Hope you like it

Fred