ÉVORA Megalithic Almendres Cromlech

Nestled in the rolling hills of Évora, Portugal, the Almendres Cromlech stands as a captivating relic of the Neolithic era. This elliptical arrangement of over 90 towering monoliths, some reaching up to 5 meters tall, dates back to 4500-4000 BC and offers a glimpse into the sophisticated astronomical and ceremonial practices of ancient communities. While the purpose of this enigmatic site remains a subject of ongoing research, its sheer scale and intricate engravings suggest a deep spiritual significance that continues to fascinate visitors from around the world. Unraveling the mysteries of the Almendres Cromlech promises to shed light on a pivotal chapter in human history.

Key Points

• The Almendres Cromlech is a Neolithic megalithic monument located near Évora, Portugal, dating back to 4500-4000 BC.
• The cromlech features an elliptical arrangement of over 90 standing stones, some reaching up to 5 meters tall, with crosier engravings.
• The Almendres Cromlech is believed to have served as an astronomical observatory, aligning with the summer solstice sunrise.
• The Centro Interpretativo Dos Almendres, an adjacent visitor center, provides insights into the history, significance, and construction of the Almendres Cromlech.
• Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases a well-preserved old town with Roman, Moorish, and Portuguese architectural heritage, including the notable Chapel of Bones.

Tour Overview

On this private tour from Lisbon to the Alentejo region, visitors explore the ancient megaliths near Évora, including the impressive Almendres Cromlech, Menhir, and Anta Grande do Zambujeiro.

The tour also visits the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Évora, highlighting the Chapel of Bones in the St. Francis Church.

Onboard Wi-Fi keeps travelers connected throughout the journey.

This comprehensive experience provides insights into the region’s rich history spanning thousands of years, with a focus on the Neolithic period megaliths.

Admission tickets aren’t included, but bottled water and an air-conditioned vehicle are provided for a comfortable and informative sightseeing experience.

Historical Significance

The region’s history spans thousands of years, with many tours focusing only on the last 800 years.

However, the area features over 10 megalithic sites, which are significant for understanding prehistory in the Iberian Peninsula and Europe. These megaliths date back to the Neolithic period, around 5500-4500 BC.

The location was ideal for hunter-gatherer communities due to the convergence of major river basins, including the Tagus, Sado, and Guadiana.

This strategic placement allowed for the development of these ancient, mysterious monuments, which continue to captivate visitors today.

Megalithic Monuments

Almendres Cromlech and Menhir stand out as the most renowned megalithic monuments in the region. These structures, dating back to the Neolithic period, offer a glimpse into the beliefs and practices of ancient hunter-gatherer communities. The Cromlech, an oval-shaped arrangement of large stones, is believed to have served as a ceremonial site, while the towering Menhir, with its engraved crosier symbol, indicates the importance of the summer solstice sunrise.

Feature	Almendres Cromlech	Menhir
Type	Stone circle	Upright stone
Age	5500-4500 BC	5500-4500 BC
Purpose	Ceremonial site	Solstice alignment
Symbolism	Oval shape, nature	Crosier engraving
Significance	Neolithic culture	Neolithic beliefs

Almendres Cromlech

Though situated within a protected natural area, Almendres Cromlech stands as one of the most impressive Neolithic monuments in Portugal.

This elliptical arrangement of over 90 standing stones dates back to between 4500 and 4000 BC, making it one of the oldest megalithic complexes in Europe. The largest stones stand up to 5 meters tall, with several displaying distinctive crosier engravings.

Researchers believe the site served as an astronomical observatory, with the Menhir indicating the summer solstice sunrise.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved site and gain insights into the ritual and ceremonial practices of Neolithic communities through the on-site interpretive center.

Centro Interpretativo Dos Almendres

Situated adjacent to the iconic Almendres Cromlech, the Centro Interpretativo dos Almendres provides visitors with a deeper understanding of this remarkable Neolithic monument.

The interactive center’s exhibits explore the history, significance, and construction of the cromlech, using multimedia displays and informative panels. Visitors can learn about the celestial alignments, symbolic engravings, and the role these structures played in the lives of ancient communities.

The center’s knowledgeable staff is on hand to answer questions and offer insights, enhancing the overall experience.

Exploring Évora

After exploring the captivating Almendres Cromlech and learning about its historical significance, the tour now shifts focus to the charming city of Évora.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Évora boasts a well-preserved old town, showcasing its Roman, Moorish, and Portuguese architectural heritage.

Visitors can stroll through the picturesque streets, admiring the Sé Cathedral, the Roman temple, and the Chapel of Bones within the St. Francis Church.

The tour allows ample time to soak in the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

Guests are encouraged to explore Évora’s lively plazas, sample local cuisine, and enjoy the authentic charm of this remarkable Alentejo destination.

Tour Logistics

To experience the captivating megaliths and historic charm of Évora, the tour departs from various locations in the Lisbon District, including hotels, accommodations, airports, stations, or seaports.

The tour commences at 9:00 am, providing ample time to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site and its renowned Almendres Cromlech.

While admission tickets aren’t included, the tour offers bottled water and an air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable journey. Guests can also stay connected with the onboard Wi-Fi provided.

The tour features a flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience begins, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable exploration of Évora’s ancient wonders.

Customer Experiences

Customers have thoroughly enjoyed the Évora Megalithic Almendres Cromlech tour, awarding it an impressive 5.0 overall rating from 8 reviews.

Highlights include friendly and accommodating guides who provide memorable experiences and enjoyable sightseeing.

While some noted concerns about time allocation for exploring Évora city, specific mentions praise the excellent lunch arrangements and personal attention from guides.

The tour delivers on its promise, immersing visitors in the region’s rich history and remarkable megalithic structures.

Customers appreciate the opportunity to discover Évora’s ancient past, finding the experience both educational and captivating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Almendres Cromlech?

The best time to visit the Almendres Cromlech is during the summer months when the site’s megalithic structures align with the summer solstice sunrise, offering a unique and awe-inspiring experience for visitors.

Is Photography Allowed Within the Megalithic Sites?

Photography is generally allowed within the megalithic sites, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting other travelers or interfering with the sites. Some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the tour guides beforehand.

Are There Any Facilities or Restrooms Available On-Site?

There are limited facilities available on-site at the megalithic sites. Visitors can use basic restrooms, but there are no other amenities. Guests should plan accordingly and bring any necessary supplies during the tour.

Can We Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Megalithic Sites in the Region?

Yes, you can extend the tour to visit additional megalithic sites in the region. The tour operator offers flexible itineraries that can be customized to include more of the area’s ancient monuments and archaeological wonders.

Are Discounts Available for Senior or Student Visitors?

There are no special discounts for seniors or students on this private tour. However, the tour provider does offer flexible booking and cancellation policies to accommodate different traveler needs. You can inquire about any potential discounts when booking.

Recap

The Almendres Cromlech is a remarkable Neolithic monument that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. This captivating site, with its elliptical arrangement of standing stones, showcases the impressive craftsmanship and astronomical knowledge of prehistoric communities. Exploring the Cromlech and the nearby interpretive center provides a comprehensive understanding of the site’s historical significance and the spiritual beliefs of the time.