In the vicinity of Lisbon, with about 83,000 inhabitants (2021 census) the city of Torres Vedras is located. Upon arriving in this municipality, we are surprised by an area full of attractions for those who like landscapes with contrast, culture, history, sport, gastronomy and welcoming people.
The 20km of Atlantic coast, combined with the proximity and ease of access to the capital, make the municipality a reference bathing spot. But in a land where wars took place, heroic feats of resistance - such as the Lines of Torres Vedras - and great victories, there is also no shortage of attractions at the level of architectural and archaeological heritage, attested by archaeological stations, Roman settlements, Arab castles, medieval churches and monasteries, 16th century fortresses and manor houses.
Starting just outside Torres Vedras and crossing the Sizandro River, the Gothic Architecture Aqueduct , built to supply the Fountain of the Pipes, located in the historic center of the city, has a large structure whose canals, when they pass to the surface, are set in two records of perfectly overlapping back arches. The date of its primitive construction is unknown.
The Castle is of primitive construction, proven by the existence of two Roman cisterns, and its first walls will have been built by the Arabs. Soffered successive interventions in medieval and modern times, especially in the monarchical era. Voltaria to have an important role in 1809, when it was integrated into the Lines of Torres Vedras, as stronghold no. 27. At that time it was again repaired and garnished with 11 pieces of artillery. In this adaptation was demolished the door of the Castle.
Agricultural activity (vineyards and horticulture), the agri-food and metallurgical industry and retail trade play a major role in the economy of Torres Vedras. This is even the county with the highest wine production at the national level.
The attributions of the municipality of Torres Vedras, in terms of culture, are vast and diverse. Culture, together with heritage and science, is one of the areas of municipal activity, guided by the promotion and safeguarding of the interests of its population.
The cultural policy of the Municipality of Torres Vedras is guided by a set of principles, which include the primacy of participation, territorial dissemination, the stimulation of creation from the local context, the articulation with the organizations of the territory and support to the creation platforms or.
The municipality has a network of cultural equipment – museums, interpretation centers, libraries, galleries and a theater – all with specific offers, organized in annual programs of activities, including specific actions for school audiences.
In gastronomy, stand out the typical Pastéis de Feijão, which can accompany with the wines of the region, or the grape, sweet produced at the time of the harvests. Fruit of its history and strong cultural component, you can live unique experiences in the restaurants of the region, through menus and 18th century dishes, which allow you to taste typical flavors of the Peninsular War period.
The king of the parties of Torres Vedras is the well-known Carnival, which moves revelers from all over the country who gather here to celebrate this day. An imperceptible experience for fans of this tradition.
Source: Torres Vedras Town Hall