Lord of the Martyrs Archaeological Station or Lord of the Martyrs Olive Grove

Category: Archaeology > Necropolis

District: Setúbal > Alcácer do Sal > Alcácer do Sal > Senhor dos Mártires

Location and Historical Significance

The Senhor dos Mártires Archaeological Station is located west of Alcácer do Sal, in the parish of Santa Maria do Castelo. It is a place of great historical interest, used as a public necropolis since the Iron Age, notable for the presence of vestiges related to Iron Age cultures and Mediterranean influences.

Archaeological Remains

Four types of burials have been identified, all linked to cremation rituals. Among the artifacts discovered are weapons, jewelry, and ceramics, some objects of local origin and others imported from the Mediterranean. The materials found suggest the practice of sophisticated funerary rituals, reflecting the cultural influence of the time.

Discoveries and Archaeological Studies

The site was first studied in the 19th century, with more in-depth investigations in the early 20th century. The work of archaeologist Virgílio Correia stands out, as he recognized the cultural and historical relevance of the artifacts, many of which are on display in museums, including the National Archaeology Museum.

Cultural and Religious Connection

Near the station is the Sanctuary of Senhor dos Mártires, a Christian temple with origins in the 13th century. This building was of great importance during the Middle Ages, functioning as a hermitage for pilgrimages and a pantheon for the Masters of the Order of Santiago.

Architecture and Points of Interest

The Sanctuary is a remarkable example of religious architecture. It consists of a church with a vaulted chancel, a square porch, and several chapels. Among them, the Chapel of the Masters, built in 1333, with rare Gothic features, and the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Cinta, highly venerated by pregnant women, stand out.

Access and Visitation

This is a place of interest for lovers of archeology and history, located in a rural area overlooking the Alentejo landscape. The space allows you to explore both the archaeological remains and the religious heritage of the adjacent sanctuary.

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Senhor_dos_Mártires_archaeological_site

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