Tejo Lagoons

Category: Nature > Lagoons

District: Portalegre > Gavião > Gavião e Atalaia

Location

The Tejo Lagoons are located in the locality of Gavião and Atalaia, in the municipality of Gavião. Situated on the right bank of the Tejo river, these natural formations appear to the east of several historical fishing weirs, such as Barreira, Cantarrão, and Boavista, integrating into an environment where the river's nature is clearly evident.

Geological Formation

The uniqueness of the Tejo Lagoons lies in their geological origin. These natural basins were excavated by the force of the river water, over millennia, into metasedimentary rocks. As the Tejo water flowed, it eroded the weaker parts of the rock, following its natural discontinuities. It is observed that, in the deeper areas of the riverbed, there are circular formations, indicating the presence of giant's kettles, curious cylindrical depressions shaped by fluvial erosion.

A Glimpse into the Past

In the past, the Tejo Lagoons were strategic points for fishing. Their natural configuration, with the western part closed off, created a trap for fish. When the river waters entered the lagoons, the shoals became trapped, providing favorable conditions for abundant fishing. This aspect connects the site to the tradition and way of life of the riverside communities.

The Rocky Landscape

The surroundings of the lagoons also offer a fascinating glimpse into the geological history of the region. In the rocky outcrops visible on the right bank and in the riverbed itself, it is possible to observe folds in the rocks. These formations, resulting from intense tectonic forces over eons, are linked to periods of great geological activity, such as the Variscan Orogeny. They are a silent testament to the transformation of the landscape over millions of years.

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