Category: Archaeology > Ensemble
District: Évora > Évora > Herdade dos Almendres
Situated in the heart of the Herdade dos Almendres, in the core of the Alentejo countryside, this megalithic complex is set in a gentle, rolling landscape dotted with cork oaks and centenary olive groves. Its location offers an immersive experience in the tranquility of the countryside, far from the urban hustle, with expansive views over the Alentejo horizon, inviting contemplation of its historical legacy in a serene natural setting. The site is located in the municipality of Évora, in the district of Évora.
The Almendres Cromlech, Menhir, and Stones represent one of the most remarkable and well-preserved megalithic monuments on the Iberian Peninsula, and indeed in Europe, dating from the Neolithic period, between 6000 and 5000 BC. Its age predates famous structures like Stonehenge, highlighting the depth of human history in this region. Classified as a National Monument since 1969, this complex evokes a period when prehistoric communities organized themselves and left lasting marks of their presence, beliefs, and knowledge.
The cromlech is composed of an impressive set of monoliths, arranged in an elliptical shape, which bear witness to the skill and organization of ancient civilizations. The stones, or menhirs, vary in size and shape, and some feature rock carvings, such as zigzags, circles, and, in some cases, stylized anthropomorphic figures. It is believed that the arrangement of the stones may have served astronomical purposes, aligned with the solstices and equinoxes, while also functioning as a place of worship, gathering, or cosmic observation for the Neolithic communities.
A short distance from the cromlech stands the solitary Almendres Menhir, an imposing large stone, sometimes interpreted as a reference point or a significant landmark in the landscape. This complementary menhir reinforces the magnitude and symbolism of the complex, suggesting a ritualistic or observational connection to the main group. Its isolated presence invites reflection on its specific function and its relationship with the larger cromlech.
A visit to this site provides a unique opportunity to connect with a profound cultural heritage in an environment that preserves the authenticity and natural beauty of the Alentejo. The energy of the place, the grandeur of the stones, and the vastness of the surrounding landscape invite a moment of introspection and a connection with a distant past. The Almendres Cromlech, Menhir, and Stones are more than mere stones; they are silent witnesses to an ancestral civilization, shrouded in a mystery that endures to this day.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cromeleque_dos_Almendres
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.55750989567943, -8.061227660331285
Coordinates DMS: 38°33'27.0"N 08°03'40.4"W
On-duty Pharmacy Herdade dos Almendres
