Protected Landscape of the Arriba Fossil Cliff of Costa de Caparica

Category: Nature > Nature Reserve

District: Setúbal > Almada > Charneca de Caparica e Sobreda

Location

The Protected Landscape of the Fossil Cliff of Costa de Caparica is located in the localities of Charneca de Caparica and Sobreda, integrated into the municipality of Almada. This area encompasses an extensive coastal strip, marked by an imposing cliff that rises above the Atlantic. From some of its highest points, it is possible to appreciate a vast panorama stretching over much of the coast, providing a unique perspective on the coastline and the horizon.

A Millennial Geological Formation

The central element of this landscape is its cliff, a unique geological formation in Western Europe. It is composed of various layers of sedimentary rocks whose origin dates back to a period of approximately 10 million years ago. At that time, the sea reached the base of this escarpment. Over time, and due to tectonic plate movements and events such as the 1755 earthquake, the sea receded, leaving this cliff exposed and "fossil", meaning it is not in direct contact with active marine erosion. Throughout its layers, it is possible to find traces of fossilized marine life, such as bivalve shells, gastropods, and even fish teeth, testaments to a distant past.

Mata dos Medos: Nature and Conservation

An integral part of the Protected Landscape is the Mata dos Medos, a forest area of great ecological importance. This forest was planted in the 18th century by order of King D. João V, with the aim of stabilizing the dunes that threatened to advance over agricultural lands. The name "Medos" derives precisely from "médão", an old term for dune. Today, the Mata dos Medos is a botanical reserve, where the stone pine and mastic tree are the dominant species. There are pedestrian trails that allow exploring this area, observing the local flora and, with some luck, spotting some of the birds of prey that find refuge here, such as the common buzzard or the barn owl. It is essential to remember that this is a protected area, where the collection of plants, animals, and fossils is strictly prohibited.

Lights and Colors of the Cliff

The beauty of the Fossil Cliff is accentuated by natural light, which highlights its shapes and hues. At dusk, when the sun begins to descend on the horizon, the escarpment takes on a new life, bathed in golden and reddish hues. Erosion, over millions of years, has sculpted the cliff, creating unusual forms and a dramatic silhouette that stands out in the landscape. This is a particularly scenic moment to appreciate the natural grandeur of the place, revealing the geological history and environmental richness that the Protected Landscape of the Fossil Cliff of Costa de Caparica represents.

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