Lisbon is (and always will be) the ‘apple of our eye’. After all, it’s a city full of incredible monuments, museums and exhibitions, not to mention some (still) secret places that we love to visit over and over again. However, we also like to explore the surrounding area. So how about a trip to the municipality of Seixal?
With an intimate connection to the River Tagus, the landscape of this municipality in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area is markedly riverside. At this level, the typical and beautiful boats stand out. However, there is much more to see, so we’ve listed some of the best places for you.
A guide to Seixal
Shipyards, manor houses, windmills and viewpoints are just some of the points of interest on this itinerary. Curious? Then take note of our suggestions:
Corroios Mill
Do you like windmills? Then you have a good reason to visit this place in Seixal. The Corroios Tide Mill was built in 1403 on the initiative of Nuno Álvares Pereira, the Holy Constable . But a year later, the property was donated to the Carmo Convent , which used it to grind cereals.
In the 18th century, the Lisbon earthquake (1755) caused major damage to the mill and it had to be rebuilt. In the second half of the 20th century, this building began to lose its importance. However, the municipality acquired the property and decided to turn it into an ecomuseum.
Where: Rua do Rouxinol, Quinta do Rouxinol
Quinta da Fidalga
This palace, whose foundation dates back to the 15th century, is one of the best preserved examples of agricultural and recreational farms in the Seixal region. In addition, Quinta da Fidalga is said to be linked to the Gama Lobo family, which had several prominent members.
There is also a surprising tidal lake here, which ebbs and flows according to the tide. The tiles lining the interior walls are another interesting feature of Quinta da Fidalga.
Where: Avenida da República 2571, Arrentela
Seixal Urban Park
Covering an area of 5.3 hectares, the Seixal Urban Park is located in Alto Dona Ana, which offers a privileged view of Seixal Bay and the city of Lisbon.
The Urban Park consists of various facilities, such as tables, swings, play areas and paths, among others. It’s a great place to exercise outdoors or to relax for a while.
Where: Avenida Albano Narciso Pereira
Traditional boats on the Tagus
In Seixal you can choose to take a trip on the river on the Baía do Seixal frigate boat or the Amoroso varino, both part of the local municipal estate.
These boats are used for recreational purposes.
Memory Space | Popular Typography of Seixal
The Espaço Memória (Memory Space), located in the former Tipografia Popular do Seixal, offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with the old techniques and know-how of a traditional graphic arts workshop.
A visit that offers a different view of the traditional printing industry; yet another place to consider visiting in Seixal!
Where: Praça Luís de Camões, 39-41
Quinta do Rouxinol Roman Pottery Site
Classified as a National Monument, the Núcleo da Olaria Romana da Quinta do Rouxinol is another place to visit in Seixal. This place offers an interesting visit from a historical point of view.
Access is subject to conditions and only takes place in the context of activities included in the Municipal Ecomuseum’s Educational Service Initiatives Program and by the Archaeology team. Visits for schoolchildren and adults, by prior appointment,” reads the Seixal City Councilwebsite.
Where: Rua Rouxinol, Miratejo
Manuel Cargaleiro Arts Workshop
Remember Quinta da Fidalga? Here’s another reason to visit it. The Manuel Cargaleiro Arts Workshop is also located within the palace.
It’s a building with the seal of quality of the architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, where you can find various exhibitions. There is a clear emphasis on the work of the master Manuel Cargaleiro.
Where: Avenida da República 2571, Arrentela
Church of Our Lady of Consolation
This religious temple is another place to visit in Seixal. Its construction dates back to the 15th century, but it is particularly Baroque . This was due to the need for reconstruction work after the 1755 earthquake.
One of its main points of interest is outside, more specifically in the church square, where there is a belvedere with an excellent view.
Where: Praça Miguel Bombarda s/n, Arrentela
Arrentela Shipyard
Although it is currently closed for renovation work, we decided to include this place on the list because of its importance.
It is a former shipyard, where exhibitions and other initiatives have made the history of the municipality known.
Where: Av. da República, Arrentela
Ponta dos Corvos Beach
This river beach, known locally as Praia dos Tesos or Ponta de Mato, is another place to visit.
The place has some support infrastructures, such as a picnic area, showers and toilets, among others. A good place to relax with the family.