Alentejo Olive Groves

The olive groves of Alentejo in southern Portugal represent one of the country's most significant agricultural landscapes, with a heritage dating back to Roman times. Today, this region accounts for over 70% of Portugal's total olive oil production, marking it as an essential pillar of the national economy. The construction of the Alqueva dam in recent decades has fundamentally transformed the area, providing vital irrigation for more than 120,000 hectares of land. This development spurred a major modernization of the sector, leading to the rise of intensive cultivation alongside traditional, centuries-old groves. Native varieties such as Galega, Cobrançosa, and Cordovil are the mainstays of the industry, producing high-quality extra virgin oils. Geographically, Alentejo is defined by its vast rolling plains and a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The olive oil from this region is globally recognized for its excellence, benefiting from both ancient expertise and contemporary processing techniques. These groves are not only economic assets but also vital components of the cultural and environmental identity of southern Portugal.

Nearby cities

Évora

Évora, a museum-city in the heart of the Alentejo region, is one of Portugal's most beautifully preserved historic gems.

Estremoz

Estremoz is known as the 'White City', famous for its high-quality marble and its medieval upper town featuring a magnificent castle.

Montemor-o-Novo

A historic town in the Alentejo region, dominated by the imposing ruins of a medieval castle.

Alqueva

A quiet village on the shores of Europe's largest man-made lake, famous for water sports and an unparalleled starry sky.

Moura

Moura is located in Alentejo near the Alqueva reservoir.

Olivenza

Olivenza is a fascinating town in Spain's Extremadura region, renowned for its unique dual Spanish-Portuguese heritage, reflected in its …

Beja

Beja is a historic city in southern Alentejo with a calm atmosphere and wide horizons.

Serpa

Serpa is a historic walled city in the Alentejo region.

Badajoz

Badajoz is located in western Spain, right on the border with Portugal.

History & landmarks

Monsaraz Castle

Monsaraz is a medieval settlement on the Spanish border with a well-preserved castle.

Vila Viçosa

The 'Marble City' of Portugal, birthplace of the last royal dynasty and home to a magnificent ducal palace.

Vidigueira Castle

Vidigueira Castle reflects the varied history of the Alentejo.

Pavia Castle

Pavia in Alentejo possesses historical remains of a medieval fortification that once protected the settlement.

Nature

Rufiji River

The largest river in Tanzania.

More places

Roman Temple of Evora

The Roman Temple of Evora is one of Portugal's most famous ancient monuments.

Castle of Arraiolos

One of the few fortresses in the world with an almost perfect circular floor plan.

Cromeleque dos Almendres

The largest megalithic monument on the Iberian Peninsula, consisting of over 90 granite menhirs.

Caladinho Roman Ruins

This archaeological site near Vila Viçosa shows remains of a Roman villa.

Viana do Alentejo Agriculture Center

This location is specialized in the agricultural production of the Alentejo region.

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Serra do Caldeiro

A range of hills in the lower Alentejo.

Roman Villa of Pisões

This significant Roman villa is located near Beja.

Beja Aeronautical Center

Beja airport serves as a center for aircraft maintenance and industrial training.