Vale da Figueira Dolmen

Category: Archaeology > Dolmen

District: Portalegre > Marvão > Beirã > Vale da Figueira

Discover the Vale da Figueira Dolmen

This is an ancient megalithic monument dating back to very distant times. It is a fascinating testament to human presence in the region thousands of years ago, set within a tranquil natural landscape.

A Portal to the Distant Past

The construction of this dolmen took place during the Neolithic period, a time when human communities began to settle down and develop complex rituals, including the construction of large stone structures for funerary purposes.

Unique Characteristics

Like many dolmens, the Vale da Figueira Dolmen has a basic structure composed of large stone blocks (orthostats) that form a central chamber. It originally had an access corridor. Despite the ravages of time, it is still possible to observe the original shape and size of this type of collective tomb.

Original Function

These structures were fundamentally collective tombs. They served as burial sites for the communities that inhabited this area during the Neolithic period, reflecting beliefs and social practices related to life and death.

Historical and Archaeological Relevance

The Vale da Figueira Dolmen is recognized for its importance in the context of Portuguese heritage. It is classified as a Property of Public Interest, which underscores its historical value and the need for its preservation as an integral part of the remarkable megalithic complex of the Marvão and Alto Alentejo region.

What to Expect from Your Visit

When visiting the dolmen, you will see the imposing vertical stones that made up the structure. Although the capstone may not be complete or in its original place, the size and arrangement of the orthostats allow one to imagine the grandeur that this monument once had. It is an opportunity to reflect on the antiquity of human occupation in this territory.

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