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Cromeleque dos Almendres
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The Cromeleque dos Almendres is the largest megalithic monument on the Iberian Peninsula and a fascinating testament to prehistoric civilizations. This impressive circular arrangement of standing stones is located in the middle of a dense cork oak forest near Évora and radiates a mystical atmosphere. The site was built in various phases between the 6th and 4th millennium BC and most likely served as a sacred place for astronomical observations or spiritual rituals. Many of the imposing granite monoliths feature enigmatic engravings and geometric patterns, the exact meaning of which remains a secret to this day. The site is significantly older than the famous Stonehenge and gives a unique insight into the spiritual world of early European agricultural cultures.
- Location: Portugal, Portugal
- Top sights: Menir dos Almendres · Almendres Cromlech · Castelo do Giraldo
- Nearby: Évora (13 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 9 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 18 | 23 | 25 | 25 | 22 | 18 | 12 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 59 | 50 | 62 | 56 | 35 | 13 | 3 | 5 | 28 | 80 | 83 | 60 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The megalithic site is freely accessible outdoors year‑round, with no entrance fee. Visitors can wander among the stone formations and explore the monumental ensemble at their own pace.
Typical hours
Being an open‑air site, there are no fixed opening hours; it is accessible anytime during daylight. In summer, an early morning or late afternoon visit features the best light.
Photography
Photography is completely unrestricted. Tripods and drones are usually allowed, but please be respectful of the archaeological site and other visitors.
Time needed
Allow about 45 minutes to 1 hour for a stroll around the site. If you are interested in history and archaeology, you can easily spend 1.5 hours there.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby city of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Roman temple and Évora Cathedral are just a short drive away.
Getting there
The cromlech is about 15 km west of Évora and is best reached by car. Access is via the N114 road and local lanes; there is a small car park.
Insider tip
Visit the cromlech at sunrise or sunset - the colours of the menhirs become particularly beautiful. Wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven.
Geography
Facts
- The monument consists of a total of 95 egg-shaped granite stones forming a double ellipse pattern.
- The alignment of the stones is closely linked to solstices and equinoxes.
- The site was only rediscovered in 1964 by the Portuguese researcher Henrique Leonor Pina.
- About a kilometer away stands a solitary menhir, the so-called Menhir dos Almendres, which may be connected to the complex.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Cromeleque dos Almendres (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about this place?
It is the largest megalithic complex on the Iberian Peninsula, with about 95 granite monoliths.
How old are the stones?
The site dates back to the 6th millennium BC, making it older than Stonehenge.
Is there an entrance fee?
Access to the site is currently free and possible at any time.
How do you reach the site?
It is located about 15 km west of Évora and is accessible via a dirt road.
Are there toilets there?
No, it is an open site without tourist infrastructure.
Cromeleque dos Almendres: where is it located?
Cromeleque dos Almendres is located in Portugal, Portugal.
Cromeleque dos Almendres: what is there to see?
Highlights include Menir dos Almendres, Almendres Cromlech, Castelo do Giraldo.
Cromeleque dos Almendres: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Cromeleque dos Almendres: why is it worth visiting?
The Cromeleque dos Almendres is the largest megalithic monument on the Iberian Peninsula and a fascinating testament to prehistoric civilizations.
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