Protected Local Landscape of Rocha da Pena

Category: Nature > Nature Reserve

District: Faro > Loulé > Querença

Location:

Rocha da Pena rises in the municipality of Loulé, in the region of Querença, marking the transition between the characteristic landscapes of the Algarvian Barrocal and the mountains. Easily visible on the horizon, its peculiar shape resembles a large natural table. With its highest point at about 480 meters of altitude, this remarkable relief extends from west to east, displaying an imposing escarpment, over fifty meters high, facing the sun.

Geological Formation:

This unique landscape is an impressive result of millions of years of geological evolution. It is considered the largest and most remarkable structural relief in the region, shaped by intense tectonic movements, continuous rock erosion, and the action of the hydrographic network. Its cornice is composed of very hard limestones, which fresh water has been slowly sculpting, giving rise to intricate fissures and small caves. The area is located in a transition zone where reddish-hued rocks can be observed, lending a distinctive color to the landscape.

Natural Heritage and Biodiversity:

Rocha da Pena stands out for its exceptional natural richness, a result of remarkable geodiversity that sustains abundant biodiversity. Along its slopes and at the summit, over five hundred and thirty-five plant species have already been identified, including some rare and endemic to the region, such as the delicate Narcissus calcícola, which finds its ideal habitat in rocky crevices. This diverse ecosystem is also home to a wide range of insects, amphibians, birds, and mammals, notably including the presence of various bat species.

A Window to the Past:

This site holds echoes of a long history, with traces of human presence dating back to the Iron Age, a period during which two enigmatic walled enclosures were built, still subjects of study today. More recently, Rocha da Pena gained international recognition for the discovery of a unique deposit of giant salamander fossils, the species Metoposaurus algarvensis, which inhabited this region approximately two hundred and twenty million years ago, revealing a fascinating prehistoric past.

Panoramic Views:

From the top of Rocha da Pena, visitors can access two distinct viewpoints, reachable via a well-marked pedestrian trail. From these strategic points, broad and contrasting perspectives of the region unfold. To the north, the "brown Algarve" of the mountains is revealed, characterized by darker rocks. Towards the south, the "silver Algarve" of the Barrocal is visible, with its limestone formations and underground aquifers, while in the distance one can contemplate the bluish glint of the Atlantic Ocean waters.

Route and Contemplation:

Rocha da Pena invites an experience of discovery and contemplation. It is an ideal destination for those seeking to explore nature, hike pedestrian trails, or simply enjoy moments of tranquility in contact with the landscape. Its immersive atmosphere and the richness of its natural and historical heritage continue to spark the curiosity of its visitors, from its unique reliefs to the traces of human presence and the ancient life forms that once inhabited it.

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