Municipal Park of Sítio das Fontes

Category: Nature > Park

District: Faro > Lagoa > Estômbar > Fontes

Location

Located in the town of Estômbar, part of the municipality of Lagoa, the Sítio das Fontes Municipal Park is situated in an area with a strong connection to water. The park extends along the banks of an estuary, on the left bank of the Arade River, which flows from Silves towards the Atlantic. This position gives it a characteristic fluvial landscape, set within the urbanized area known as Fontes.

A Natural Setting

Spanning approximately 18 hectares, the Sítio das Fontes Municipal Park is a space that celebrates nature. Here, various ecosystems coexist harmoniously, inviting visitors to a serene contact with the natural environment. The park is notable for its abundance of high-flow springs, which feed a natural lagoon, ideal for cooling off on hot days, and which integrate into the beautiful fluvial landscape of the Arade River.

History and Local Heritage

This place is a true testament to human activity throughout time, with vestiges dating back to ancient eras. Among the most striking elements are the two water mills, one of which has been restored and can be observed by visitors. Their antiquity is remarkable, with records indicating the existence of at least one of them as early as the 15th century, as mentioned in the "Livro do Almoxarifado de Silves". In addition to the mills, an Algarvian house has been restored, allowing for an appreciation of the region's traditional architecture.

Leisure and Meeting Space

The Sítio das Fontes Municipal Park has traditionally been a meeting and leisure point for local populations, a vocation it maintains to this day. It is a suitable place for moments of relaxation and for celebrating various occasions in contact with nature. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful environment for picnics or use a specific path for physical exercise. An outdoor amphitheater complements the infrastructures, making the park a natural stage for various expressions and activities.

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