Pussos: Springs, Megaliths and Trails through the Landscape

Pussos is a destination for travelers who want to combine landscape and history. A route along the Ribeira de Vale Cipote, impressive megalithic monuments, historic springs and an annual tradition give the place several distinct facets. Depending on whether you prefer active days, cultural and historical discoveries or a more relaxing stay, you can plan your trip in very different ways.

Historic Traces and Special Fountains

The history of Pussos dates back at least to June 15, 1514. On that day, King Manuel I of Portugal granted the place a municipal charter. A specific indication from a later period is provided by the Fonte da Sandoeira: its stone lintel bears the year 1733. The Igreja Paroquial de São Pedro do Rego da Murta is also part of the town's historic character; it was built in the 18th century.

Several fountains make the local history particularly tangible. The Fonte de Pussos was formerly also known as the “Fonte do Cão de Água.” The Fonte dos Cavaleiros complex was redesigned in 1964. Its walls are shaped like benches, inviting visitors to linger and socialize. Traditionally, the Fonte dos Cavaleiros is also associated with the Knights Templar or the Order of Christ. The site of the Fonte do Paço was once connected to a Templar commandery.

Megaliths from a Distant Past

The Complexo Megalítico do Rego da Murta comprises thirteen monuments. Anta 2 offers particularly detailed insights. The megalithic tomb consists of a polygonal chamber and a slightly extended corridor ending in a small atrium. The site shows two phases of use. The secondary burials date from the Middle to Late Chalcolithic and are dated to the period from 2500 to 2000 BC.

Anthropological studies identified more than fifty individuals buried in Anta 2. This makes the site interesting not only because of its visible stone architecture, but also for visitors interested in the lives and burial practices of very early communities. Those traveling with children can use the monuments as an opportunity to talk about concepts of time, archaeology and the traces left by past societies.

Hiking the Rota dos Cântaros e das Rodilhas

The Rota dos Cântaros e das Rodilhas is ideal for hiking and enjoying the landscape. It follows the Ribeira de Vale Cipote, also known as the Ribeira de Pussos, in a northerly direction. Almost the entire route lies within the Site of Community Importance of Sicó-Alvaiázere. In Pussos, the trail also allows for a detour to the church of Santo Estêvão.

This combination of river, landscape and cultural-historical destination allows for a variety of day plans. You can focus on the journey itself or combine the route with a visit to the church and other historic sites. A special time for the town is the first Sunday in August: this is when Pussos holds the annual Festa Sagrada in honor of its patron saint, Santo Estêvão.

Which Accommodation Suits Your Travel Plans?

When looking for a holiday rental or holiday home in Pussos, it is worth first deciding on your preferred travel rhythm. If you mainly want to explore the Rota dos Cântaros e das Rodilhas, your daily planning will center on the trail. If you are more interested in springs, churches and megalithic monuments, you can divide your days accordingly. The green landscape of Pussos São Pedro provides a habitat or serves as a transit area for red-legged partridges, rabbits, hares, wild boar and foxes – another aspect for travelers who want to include nature observation in their time there.

For more travel ideas, you can also take a look at Alvaiázere and Pelmá. This makes it easier to decide which place best matches your desired balance of nature, history and shared discoveries.

Back to the higher-level travel overview: Alvaiázere.