Well of the Two Brothers

Category: Civil Architecture > Well

District: Beja > Mértola > Mértola

Location

The Poço dos Dois Irmãos (Well of the Two Brothers) is located in the vicinity of Mértola, set within an Alentejo landscape characterized by extensive schist hills. Its position, on a subtle elevation, offers a wide perspective over the natural beauty that surrounds the village, including the winding course of the Guadiana River.

This spot is integrated into a predominantly natural environment, punctuated by the low-lying and shrubby vegetation typical of the region, inviting an experience of direct contact with the tranquility of the territory.

The Legend of the Well and Its Stones

The unique name of this place, "Poço dos Dois Irmãos," echoes an ancient popular legend, passed down through generations in the region. It is told that, a long time ago, two brothers of meager resources lived in the vicinity of this well. Their lives were marked by constant disputes and arguments, even over the most trivial matters.

During a severe storm, while arguing about the overflowing waters of the Ribeira de Oeiras into the Guadiana, one of the brothers, exasperated by the discord, made a wish: that if he were lying, both of them would be turned into stone, along with the small loaf of bread he held. The legend narrates that the wish was granted, and where their humble dwelling and the well once stood, two stones of considerable size appeared, said to represent the brothers, and a third smaller stone between them, symbolizing the bread. The story, deeply rooted in the collective memory, perpetuates the symbolism of this site.

Natural Environment and Point of Contemplation

The area surrounding the Poço dos Dois Irmãos is part of a rich and diverse ecosystem, exemplary of the Mediterranean flora of Alentejo, where species such as Cistus ladanifer (rockrose) and Ulex parviflorus (gorse) can be observed. This natural space offers refuge to local fauna, making nature observation particularly rewarding.

The intrinsic serenity of the place invites a pause and contemplation of the Alentejo landscape that extends towards Mértola. Being a site of remarkable natural beauty and rich vegetation, special care for the environment is crucial, particularly regarding fire prevention, so that its beauty remains intact.

The Poço dos Dois Irmãos thus presents itself as a symbolic point of interest, where oral history intertwines with the natural landscape. It is a place that invites a brief stop, whether to enjoy the quiet of the countryside, to reflect on the legend, or simply to appreciate the panoramic beauty, serving as a landmark for those exploring the region's hiking trails.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt