Towns and Villages

The Grândola region has its own very special characteristics, combining the influences of the coast with those of the inland regions of southern Portugal. Farming continues to be a very important activity here, with rice being the most significant crop.

As far as the region's cultural heritage is concerned, the archaeological remains dating from the Roman period are the most important, particularly the fish-salting tanks found at Tróia, which date from the beginning of the first century AD.

The great interest of this region is the close proximity of several excellent beaches, which help to attract large numbers of visitors each year. Particularly popular amongst beach-goers is the Tróia Peninsula, and a number of other extensive sandy beaches, such as Pego, Comporta and Carvalhal.

In the recent history of Portugal, the name of Grândola has become associated with the song "Grândola Vila Morena", written and sung by José Afonso. On the eve of the 25 April Revolution, it was played on Rádio Renascença as a signal to the more distant army units that they could begin their advance on Lisbon. Sung at moments of great enthusiasm or danger, it can now be considered the anthem of the Revolution, a reminder of how freedom of expression had been freshly regained at that time.