Santa Vitória Settlement

Category: Archaeology > Dolmen

District: Portalegre > Campo Maior > Povoado de Santa Vitória > Nossa Senhora da Graça dos Degolados

Location

The Village of Santa Vitória is situated in a predominantly rural setting, rising on a hill near Campo Maior. Its position offers a wide perspective over the surrounding landscape, characteristic of the Alto Alentejo region, particularly the Herdade do Vale da Preguiça. This natural setting contributes to a peaceful experience, where history meets rural serenity.

Chalcolithic Remains

This archaeological site dates back to the Chalcolithic period, with remains indicating an occupation that began around 3000 BC. It reveals two distinct phases of habitation, demonstrating the evolution of an ancestral community. In the oldest phase, it is possible to observe the contours of a central enclosure, which probably functioned as an acropolis, protected by an ingenious defensive system composed of ditches and adobe walls, arranged in a circular and concentric manner.

The later phase of occupation evidences the presence of residential structures, such as remains of huts and various hearths, suggesting how people lived and organized their daily lives thousands of years ago. Exploring the site allows one to imagine the life of these prehistoric communities and their relationship with the territory they inhabited.

Observation Point

To facilitate the understanding and observation of the archaeological site, a modern structure was implemented. On the south side of the village, there is an observation platform, built of metal and accessible by spiral stairs. This addition allows visitors to have a panoramic view over the ruins, helping to visualize the dimension and organization of the ancient village of Santa Vitória in its landscape context.

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