ABRANTES, Santarém

Abrantes is a historic Portuguese city in the district of Santarém, strategically situated on a hill overlooking the Tagus River.

Highlights and Heritage
Abrantes Castle: One of the main points of interest, it offers a panoramic view of the Tagus Valley and the Beira Baixa region. Inside is the Church of Santa Maria do Castelo, which houses the Almeida Pantheon.

The Almeida Pantheon is one of the most important Renaissance funerary monuments in Portugal, located inside the Church of Santa Maria do Castelo in Abrantes.

History and Significance
Origin: It was established in 1433 by D. Lopo Dias de Azevedo, but owes its magnificence to D. Lopo de Almeida, 1st Count of Abrantes, who established the family's official burial place there.

Artistic Highlight: The pantheon houses the tombs of the Counts of Abrantes, standing out for its stylistic transition between late Gothic and Renaissance. The tombs are decorated with recumbent statues and high-quality sculptural details.

Location and Visits
Currently, the pantheon is part of the MIAA – Iberian Museum of Archaeology and Art, which uses the Church of Santa Maria do Castelo as one of its main centers.

What to see: In addition to the funerary monuments, the church has a collection of sacred art and historical tiles.

Historic Center of Abrantes: Characterized by narrow streets and white houses decorated with flowers, reflecting its medieval heritage.

MUDE - Iberian Museum of Archaeology and Art: Housed in the former Convent of S. Domingos, it is a cultural space of reference in the region.

Nature and Leisure

Castelo do Bode Reservoir: Located nearby, it is ideal for water sports and leisure, with highlights including the village of Rio de Moinhos and the Fontes River Beach.

Aquapolis: A riverside park on the banks of the Tagus River for sports activities and outdoor walks.

Gastronomy
The city is famous for its traditional sweets, with Palha de Abrantes and Tigeladas being its gastronomic landmarks.