The municipality of Montijo is one of the many reasons why we should travel out here. With a history intrinsically linked to the River Tagus, this place has a vast natural heritage, with particular emphasis on its riverfront.
However, natural treasures are far from the only reason to visit Montijo. After all, there is a rich religious and built heritage waiting to be discovered and contemplated. Crossing the Vasco da Gama Bridge and visiting Montijo is synonymous with discovering a place with history, but full of dynamism and modernity.
Must-see places in Montijo
Windmills, museums that celebrate the traditions of yesteryear and incredible churches are just some of the must-sees on any visit to Montijo. We’ve put together a short list with some tips. Shall we go there?
1 – Tide Mill
The Cais Mill in Aldeia Galega/Montijo is one of several tide mills worth visiting on the south bank of the Tagus. It is one of the county’s ex-libris and documented references point to its origins in the 17th century. However, the cross of the Order of Santiago, visible on the exterior façade, indicates an earlier existence.
Until the end of the 19th century, this Tide Mill always belonged to the same family and changed hands in the 20th century. But in 1995, the property was acquired by the municipality of Montijo, which took charge of its preservation.
Where: Frente Ribeirinha – 2870 Montijo
2 – Fisherman’s Museum
Fishing is in Montijo’s blood, or this wouldn’t be a riverside area. So it’s not surprising that the municipality has a museum dedicated to fishing.
Although the new facilities are located in the building of the former Conde Ferreira School and were opened to the public in 2014, the Fisherman’s Museum of the Aldegalense Cooperative Fishing Union Society (SCUPA) has already existed since 1988.
The aim of this space is to establish itself as a link between the community and fishing, as a symbol of its own identity.
Where: Largo Conde Ferreira 2, 2870-114 Montijo
3 – Mother Church of Montijo
Considered a Property of Public Interest since 1993, this building dates back to the beginning of the 15th century, but has been rebuilt over time. Of the various interventions carried out, those of the 17th century stand out, since there was a profound remodeling. But also worth mentioning is the 19th century campaign that covered the church with a beautiful set of tiles.
The building is also known as the Igreja do Espírito Santo Matriz do Montijo.
4 – Esteval Windmill
This windmill is another must-see in Montijo. Built at the beginning of the 19th century, the property was part of a vast agricultural estate called Quinta do Moinho Velho.
The Moinho de Vento do Esteval ceased to function at the beginning of the 20th century, but was restored by the local authority in 2000. The aim of this intervention was to turn the building into a museum.
Where: Rua do Moinho – 2870-406 Montijo
5 – Atalaia Agricultural Museum
The Atalaia Agricultural Museum has been open to the public since 1997 and is an important agricultural landmark in the municipality of Montijo. It is located in Quinta Nova da Atalaia and is a direct testimony to the agricultural past and traditional knowledge applied to olive oil and wine.
The aim of this museum space is to promote, conserve and disseminate the cultural assets related to rural life that mark the history of Montijo. The Atalaia Agricultural Museum was renovated in 2009. Admission is free.
Where: Largo da Feira – 2870 – 706 Atalaia
6 – Quinta do Saldanha & Ermida do Senhor Jesus dos Aflitos
This complex was built in the 16th century, but was later rebuilt. The property was ruined by the 1755 earthquake and underwent extensive reconstruction, which gave the manor house and hermitage the features you can see today.
This estate is known as Quinta do Saldanha, as it belonged to the Saldanha da Gama family. It is also another place that depicts Montijo’s agricultural past.
Where: Quinta do Saldanha, Rua Cidade de Lisboa 193 – 2870, Montijo
7 – Church of Santo Isidro de Pegões
This religious temple stands out for its architecture. Built in the 20th century, the church was inaugurated in 1957 and was designed by the architect Eugênio Correia.
Despite being included in the Estado Novo building plans, the Church of Santo Isidro de Pegões escapes the canons of the time.
The church has original lines and a north-facing façade. The interior is devoid of large decorative elements.
Where: Avenida 25 de Abril – 2985-153 Santo Isidro de Pegões
8 – Montijo Municipal Museum – Casa Mora
This building was built in the second half of the 19th century. The exterior and interior feature exquisite decorative details typical of that period.
The building was acquired by the municipality of Montijo in the 1980s and in 1993 it became the headquarters of the Municipal Museum. Admission is free.
Where: Avenida dos Pescadores N.º 52 – 2870-114 Montijo
9 – Riverside area
On this list of places to visit in Montijo, a stroll along the riverside area is a must. After all, this is one of the most emblematic places in the municipality and stands out for the natural beauty of its landscape.
Take the opportunity to watch the birds that usually hang around. A real treat for nature lovers.
10 – Carlos Hidalgo Gomes de Loureiro Municipal Park
Green spaces are increasingly a place of well-being; a kind of lung for those who live far from the tranquillity of the mountains. The Carlos Hidalgo Gomes de Loureiro Municipal Park is a benchmark in Montijo.
With an area of around 3.5 hectares, this park also includes a children’s playground, among other facilities.
Where: Avenida Paulino Gomes – Montijo