We were staying in the Pousada in Palmela for three nights and spent the whole time in the area around the hotel and sightseeing in and around Setubal. It was interesting, relaxing and just a delight after the cold and grey skies in London.
The walls
It is quite hard to find information about the history of the town. The first walls were built in the 14th century but only a few bits remain. The Porta da Sol is one of the gates in the walls.
The old centre
It is a pleasure to wander around the narrow streets of the historic centre, with lots of interesting shops and boutiques, cafes and corners.
Garden of Bonfim
This pleasant park is just five minutes’ walk from the Praca Bocage and was pretty and quiet, with a very nice cafe. In the hot summer months it would be cool under the trees and no doubt well-frequented.
The park dates back to the 16th century when Manual I of Portugal acquired a farm here and made a garden which still exists.
The Church of St Julian
The first church on this site dates from the 13th century, but it has been reconstructed in succeeding centuries and today’s church dates from the 18th century. We popped in because the door was open but only managed five minutes before we were shooed out! The church is on the Praca Bocage, the main square in Setubal. After the Church of Jesus it was very ornate and Baroque, but it had a good atmosphere.
What a lovely day sightseeing in Setubal – and in sunshine with blue skies!
restlessjo
Some of the old town was very poor but the inhabitants didn’t seem to mind . Did you see the strange characters in Parque de Bonfim? Sculptures 🤔💗