Aspradantes Menhir

Category: Archaeology > Menhir

District: Faro > Vila do Bispo > Budens > Aspradantes

Location and Context

The Menir of Aspradantes is a prehistoric monument located in the parish of Vila do Bispo e Raposeira, in the Algarve, Southern Portugal.

Historical Significance

The menhir dates back to the Neo-Chalcolithic period, being an important testimony to the prehistory of the region.

Monument Description

The menhir is a vertical stone sculpted in white limestone, approximately two meters high, although it has been truncated at the top. It has a subcylindrical shape and is located in a fold of land, about 95 meters high, near the Ribeira de Vale Pocilgão stream.

Alignment and Monoliths

The menhir is part of an alignment that follows a Northwest-Southeast direction. There are also three smaller monoliths, each about one meter high, positioned at varying distances from the main menhir.

Heritage Importance

The Menir of Aspradantes was classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1992, recognizing its archaeological and cultural relevance.

Archaeological Works

The monument was the subject of archaeological studies and excavations in 1987 and 1989, as part of archaeological survey programs in the Algarve and in the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Protected Landscape Area.

Access and Visit

The Menir of Aspradantes can be visited in the vicinity of the village of Hortas do Tabual. It is located about two kilometers from the coast and offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the history and prehistoric architecture of the region.

Surrounding Landscape

In addition to the archaeological interest of the menhir, the surrounding landscape is enchanting, with panoramic views and the presence of the Ribeira de Vale Pocilgão stream, providing a complete experience for visitors.

Tourist Importance

The Menir of Aspradantes is a fascinating tourist destination for those interested in discovering the prehistoric heritage of Portugal. Visiting it allows you to immerse yourself in the ancestral history of the region and understand the importance of these monuments in prehistoric culture.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menir_de_Aspradantes

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