Benavente Pier

Category: Civil Architecture > Quay

District: Santarém > Benavente > Benavente > Vala Nova

Location

The Benavente Dock is located in the area known as Vala Nova, a riverside zone bordering the village's urban cluster. This site serves as a pivotal point on the extensive waterfront, naturally connecting to the Benavente Riverside Park via a pedestrian path. It is situated on the banks of Vala Nova, a body of water with a close relationship to the main bed of the Sorraia River nearby.

Origin and History

The history of this dock is intimately linked to navigation on local rivers and the region's economic dynamics. Vala Nova, where the dock is situated, was a human intervention carried out in the 19th century with the aim of controlling the floods of the Sorraia River and optimizing the fertile agricultural lands of the floodplain. Over time, this location became a significant commercial port for the village of Benavente, serving as a dispatch point for various products transported by river.

Current Use and River Connection

Currently, the dock maintains its connection with water, albeit with a different purpose. It serves as a place to moor small boats, being a point of interest for those seeking river activities. It is also from this dock that boat trips sometimes depart, allowing exploration of Vala Nova and the surrounding natural environment from a different perspective.

The Landscape of Vala Nova

The natural surroundings of the dock are characterized by Vala Nova, a landscape that, despite its artificial origin, was quickly colonized by nature. This process created a unique ecosystem rich in wildlife. The mix of waters, transitioning between fresh and brackish under the influence of tides, and the proximity to the agricultural and natural areas of the floodplain, give Vala Nova a singular environment and added value for those who visit the site in search of tranquility and contact with riverside nature.

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