Graciously unfolding its charming traditional houses on the right bank of the Sado, in the very heart of Setúbal District, we find Alcácer do Sal, one of the oldest cities in Europe.
Founded by the Phoenicians before 1000 B.C., it was once one of the main inland port cities of the western peninsula, known for its salt mines, fish industry and raising and exportation of horses, The area was later invaded by the Arabs, who named it Qasr Abu Danis and built one of the most resilient fortresses of the Iberian Peninsula on the top of the hill.
Years and years have gone by, but Alcácer’s charm remains untouched. You discover beauty from every nook and cranny, whether on top of the castle, the river bank, the narrow winding streets or the bridge over the curved arm of the Sado waters that finally come to a rest here.
The city spreads lazily over a gentle hill rising in the middle of the Alentejo flatland. The warm breeze blowing through its salty name brings back memories of old legends and ancient people, warriors and pirates. Whoever decides to take a rest here may be sure they’ll be lost in Alcácer’s magic charm.
