Roman Villa of Freiria

Category: Nature > Park

District: Lisboa > Cascais > Polima > Casal de Freiria

Location

The Roman Villa of Freiria is located in the Polima area, in the municipality of Cascais. It is situated in a valley, flanked by elevations and near small watercourses that converge into the Polima stream. This location, characteristic of the lower Lisbon peninsula, provides a setting that evokes its ancient connection to the land and agricultural production, being surrounded by predominantly rural terrain.

A Millennial Legacy

This archaeological site stands as one of the most complete examples of a Roman rural estate in the Iberian Peninsula. Likely built in the 2nd century AD, the villa was a complex productive and residential unit. Here, one can observe the remains of the domus, the stately area of the residence, which included pavements and part of its peristyle, a courtyard with columns, as well as a rainwater collection system known as an impluvium. The presence of a thermal complex further attests to the comfort and standard of living of its ancient inhabitants.

The Granary and Agricultural Production

One of the most notable elements of the Roman Villa of Freiria is its monumental granary, considered the largest of its kind identified in the Iberian Peninsula. Its large dimensions and careful construction, visible in the buttresses that reinforced the foundations, highlight the extensive agricultural activity that took place here. This site was a vital production center, including presses for winemaking and olive oil production, essential to the economy of the era.

Traces Beyond Rome

The history of Freiria extends far beyond the Roman period. Archaeological investigations have revealed continuous human occupation since prehistoric times, with findings dating back to the Paleolithic, Chalcolithic, and Bronze Age. The Romans settled in an area already inhabited for millennia, and their choice of site, distinct from that of previous populations, contributed to the remarkable preservation of the oldest remains. Among the most unique finds, a solar quadrant stands out, a rare piece in the national territory, and an altar dedicated to the indigenous deity Triborunnis.

Visitor Experience and Preservation

To protect the fragile structures and provide an accessible experience, the visitor path through the Roman Villa of Freiria largely takes place on elevated walkways. This approach allows for the observation of the ruins without direct contact, safeguarding the archaeological heritage. However, there is a small section where it is possible to walk on the original limestone slab, offering a more tangible connection with the past. Bilingual information panels and graphic reconstructions complement the visit, helping to understand the daily life and organization of this important historical site, classified as a Property of Public Interest.

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