Moor's Rock

Category: Archaeology > Archaeological Site

District: Viseu > Tondela > São Miguel do Outeiro

Location

Penedo dos Mouros is located in the village of São Miguel do Outeiro, in the municipality of Tondela. This site is situated in a predominantly rural environment, benefiting from a slightly sloping position that makes it highly visible and distinct in the landscape. It is flanked by a wild pine forest and in harmony with the surrounding vineyards, offering a serene view of the natural surroundings.

Memories of Antiquity

Recognized as a proto-historic site, Penedo dos Mouros likely originated in the Iron Age. This fact gives it remarkable importance in the regional archaeological landscape. The site has been classified as a Property of Public Interest, underscoring its historical and cultural value within Portuguese heritage and representing a testament to ancient practices and constructions that have withstood the test of time.

The Sculpted Rock

The central element of this site is a large granite monolith, rounded in shape, which has been worked on its upper part. A staircase, also made of granite, was attached to one side, allowing access to a platform at the top of the rock. To reach the highest point, there are still some additional steps carved into the rock, with wide, semicircular platforms. At the summit of the penedo, there is a small granite construction, with a rectangular plan and a gabled roof, suggesting the form of an ancient temple.

Landscape Integration

The presence of Penedo dos Mouros in the rural landscape is particularly striking. Its isolated position on the terrain, at the edge of a pine forest and framed by vineyards, gives it a picturesque and inviting appearance. It is a visually prominent place, providing a tranquil environment for visitors who appreciate the profound interaction between human work and the grandeur of the surrounding nature, where the landscape harmonizes with history.

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