Lime Kiln

Category: Civil Architecture > Lime Kiln

District: Lisboa > Cascais > Alcabideche > Forno da Cal

Location

Located in the town of Alcabideche, within the municipality of Cascais, Forno da Cal is situated in an area that blends a semi-urban environment with its proximity to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Its placement provides a serene setting, inviting a tranquil exploration of its structures and the surrounding area.

A Legacy of Construction

Forno da Cal is a site of historical significance, with its origins dating back to at least 1582. This location bears witness to the fundamental importance of the region's quarries in the production of lime. This material was vital for the construction and maintenance of the various forts that protected the Tagus estuary and later played a crucial role in the grand task of rebuilding Lisbon after the devastating earthquake of 1755.

Ancient Engineering

The built complex consists of five circular kilns, distinguished by the solidity of their walls. Constructed from stone with a notable thickness of about three meters, these structures were not only designed to ensure the rigidity and durability of the kilns. Their robust design was essential to withstand the extremely high temperatures required in the process of transforming limestone into lime, revealing an advanced technical understanding for the time.

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