Vila Nova Da Barquinha: Art, History and the Tagus

Almourol Castle and the Tagus

Almourol Castle stands on a small, steep island in the middle reaches of the Tagus. This medieval military monument is associated with the Reconquista. The island, steep terrain and river give this place a distinctive landscape character.

Boats depart for the castle from the landing stage next to it every 20 minutes. The admission price also includes a visit to the Templar Interpretation Centre of Almourol. Check the current timetable and applicable ticket conditions before your visit.

Art in the Park and Along the Route

At the Almourol Contemporary Sculpture Park, sculptures are spread across seven hectares of Barquinha Park. The park brings together the most representative names in contemporary Portuguese sculpture. The grounds include an exhibition gallery, riverside paths and play areas for children.

The Tagus Panoramic Trail can be used year-round on foot or by bicycle. Boardwalks, handrails, viewpoints and rest areas can be found along the entire route. The experiences therefore differ: in the park, artworks are spread across an area, while on the trail the focus is on the route itself.

Religious Buildings and Regional History

The Atalaia Mother Church was founded or rebuilt at the beginning of the 16th century by D. Pedro de Meneses, Lord of Cantanhede. The Tancos Church of Mercy was completed in 1585. Its interior includes tilework and a Mannerist altarpiece with paintings by Simão Rodrigues. The dates refer to different things: in Atalaia, to the founding or rebuilding, and in Tancos, to the completion.

At the Archaeology Interpretation Centre of Alto Ribatejo, a permanent exhibition displays the archaeological finds from northern Ribatejo. It is the only facility of its kind in Portugal. Its focus is therefore on archaeological finds from the region.

The Integrated Centre for Science Education organizes interactive modules on local history and culture into six themed areas: “Embark on Science”, “Exploring the Castle”, “Exploring Barquinha”, “Exploring the Tagus”, “Exploring Flight” and “Maker Space - TINK”.

Visitor Planning

The local on-demand transport service in Médio Tejo connects Cafuz, Praia do Ribatejo, Tancos, Vila Nova da Barquinha, Cardal, Moita do Norte, Atalaia and Entroncamento. It operates only when a journey has been requested in advance and serves only stops for which reservations have been made. Check the currently applicable stops and procedures before planning your trip.

Visits to the Atalaia Mother Church were scheduled for Friday mornings by prior arrangement through the Vila Nova Da Barquinha Tourist Office. Ask there about the currently available options before planning your visit.

Discover more destinations: Vila Nova Da Barquinha, Tancos, Cartaxo, Alcanena, Ferreira Do Zêzere, Almeirim, Golegã, Abrantes.

For the broader travel overview: Santarem.