Geometric Vila Real de Santo António
Geometric In the border
Built after Lisbon’s earthquake this city follows the plan of central Lisbon.It didn’t grow too much, and visit is easy.
Commerce with Spanish
Taking advantage of its location by the border, this city has a lively commerce aimed to Spanish, that also attracts locals and the many tourists of the nearby beaches.
The straight streets are a sequence of small and varied shops for all needs and tastes.
River Influence
In a province dominate by the sea, this city is different – the proximity to Spain gives the river a stronger importance, allowing the city to turn its back to the sea.
The bridge built near Castro Marim diverted most of the international traffic, but the river remains as the most important element to Vila Real de Santo António.
Architecture
Built according to the plans to recover Lisbon after the earthquake, this city is a good example of smart architecture.
t’s central square and surrounding streets are nice to stroll, with a reasonable commercial use (mainly oriented to the many Spanish visitors)
Cultural Centre
A military building to house the troops that protected the border, became later a market.
With the construction of the new market, thirty years ago, the building was adapted to work as a cultural center, receiving the name of Antonio Aleixo, a popular poet, and being used since then by the municipality for all kind of events.
Church
One of the most relevant buildings around the beautiful main square, is the church of “Nossa senhora da Encarnação”.
Built with the city in the 18th century, by Marquês de Pombal the church suffered several fires that changed it a lot, though a few panels have been saved.
