Pomarão (old mines’ port)
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At the confluence of Chança stream and Guadiana river, about 40 km from the rivermouth, Pomarão, an old fishermen village, grew in importance in 1859 when was built a port to export the ore extracted from São Domingos mines (pyrites) and the site of unloading the equipment for the mine, all thanks to one of the first railway lines in Portugal (1862), 17 km long, originally a tramway pulled by mules and later (1867) with steam locomotives. In the Pomarão, a settlement was built, and two quays for boats, such as frigates. The ore was then loaded and transported to England, Germany and other countries.
Today Pomarão is a unique element of industrial archeology, still having traces of the pier and old mining sites.
The former ships gave way to yatches whose occupants discover this village with small houses in taipa, arranged in terraces on the river. The proximity of Chança dam, the scenic beauty of the place and Festival do Peixe do Rio (River fish Festival) held annually in late March, are some of the attractions.
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At the confluence of Chança stream and Guadiana river, about 40 km from the rivermouth, Pomarão, an old fishermen village, grew in importance in 1859 when was built a port to export the ore extracted from São Domingos mines (pyrites) and the site of unloading the equipment for the mine, all thanks to one of the first railway lines in Portugal (1862), 17 km long, originally a tramway pulled by mules and later (1867) with steam locomotives. In the Pomarão, a settlement was built, and two quays for boats, such as frigates. The ore was then loaded and transported to England, Germany and other countries.
Today Pomarão is a unique element of industrial archeology, still having traces of the pier and old mining sites.
The former ships gave way to yatches whose occupants discover this village with small houses in taipa, arranged in terraces on the river. The proximity of Chança dam, the scenic beauty of the place and Festival do Peixe do Rio (River fish Festival) held annually in late March, are some of the attractions.
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Alentejo
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Mértola
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Vale do Guadiana Nature Park
Identification and Access
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Yes
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Access to Pomarão from:
- Mértola (about 25 min) – N265. Drive 4.5 km and follow the signs, on your right to Picoitos/ Alves/ Tamejoso/ Fernandes/ Monte Alto. After 10 km is the road to Pomarão, on your right.
GPS: 37.555515, -7.523480
Base Characterization
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Cultural Historical
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On Guadiana River banks.
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Private
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Nineteenth century
Tips
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In the end of March go to the Festival do Peixe do Rio (River Fish Festival).
