Santarém - Alma Nostra

Santarém

Located on a plateau overlooking the Tejo river, Santarém was for centuries a strategic location for the defense of the realm. It rules the vast plains of Ribatejo, of which it is the capital. Of its rich past remain a few Gothic monuments scattered in the old quarter. Its quiet streets crossed by stairs are a pleasant place to walk.

The city continues to play an important role due to its location since it is an essential road node. Despite its grandeur, history and traditions, Santarém is not a city of the past. The implementation of the Polis program helped the city become more modern and balanced.

Santarém is the capital of the district that includes the following counties: Abrantes, Alcanena, Almeirim, Alpiarça, Benavente, Cartaxo, Chamusca, Constância, Coruche, Entroncamento, Ferreira do Zêzere, Golegã, Mação, Ourém, Rio Maior, Salvaterra de Magos, Santarém, Sardoal, Tomar, Torres Novas, Vila Nova da Barquinha.

Crafts

Santarém is also rich in craft traditions. Pottery, hand-painted earthenware, tin, linen socks, blankets, baskets and items made of bulrush (a plant that grows in the marshes and then is used to make stuffed work) are some of the crafts that are alive in the city. The “monas” from Constância, rag dolls with legs made of cane, are dressed in costumes from the "Belle Epoque" such as nanny or maid. In Golegã craftsman produce items made of red clay which is then glazed in white and painted blue or yellow. In the district we can still find basketry, quilts and patchwork rugs, weaving, cooperage, wrought iron and wood, tapestry, miniature boats, cork work, saddlery, embroidery, tiles, pottery, wooden toys and work in wicker.

To visit

Ourém Castle

Constância

Almourol Castle

Portas do Sol – Santarém

Convent of Christ – Tomar