Webcams Santarem online - the center of the historical province of Ribatejo

Santarem is a relatively small popular city, considered the Gothic capital of Portugal. It is famous for its bullfighting and the largest farming show in the country. A measured and welcoming atmosphere reigns here, and the local flavor is complemented by historical, cultural and entertainment attractions that can be seen if you watch Santarem's webcams online. The local lands have been inhabited since ancient times. According to legend, the city was named after the Holy Martyr Irene. After the conquest by Henriquez, Santarem became the largest center of the Portuguese rulers. It was here that the royal residence and the capital of the empire were located. Many natural disasters and battles significantly weakened the importance of the city for the monarchs, who were forced to leave Santarem, devoid of many important cultural and architectural monuments.

Some of the old buildings have survived to this day.

One of them is the Cathedral, which is also known as the Seminary Church. The building is clad in baroque facades and has the status of a functioning temple. The interior decoration of the building amazes with its exquisite stone and gold inlays, as well as miraculously survived frescoes. Adjacent to the cathedral is the Diocese Museum, which contains the cult works of the Santarem diocese that have survived to this day, starting from the XII century. The church of Graça, built in the 14th century, is endowed with an amazing Gothic appearance. It is one of the main attractions of the city with its snow-white facades with lacy stone carvings, traditional roses and floral ornaments. You should definitely visit another ancient temple of Santarem - the Church of St. Mary de Marville, erected in the XII century instead of the mosque that once stood here. The temple acquired its present appearance in the 16th century during a grandiose reconstruction at the initiative of the Indian Viceroy. Next to the church is the Cabasa tower. This is all that remains of the old fortress. The tower houses a clock and a bell that counts down every hour. You can get a closer look at the cultural life of Santarem by visiting the house-museum, founded in the former estate of Prime Minister Jose Relvas, who has collected a rich collection of works of art. The patron bequeathed all his treasures to the city. The Figueiros fountain complex has an unusual and even mystical atmosphere. The building was erected in the early Gothic style near the road between Santarem and the Atamarma valley. The composition is represented by a stone canopy with arches and sharp teeth, repeating the merlons of the city wall.

In addition to exploring the historical monuments in Santarem, you can take an unforgettable walk among the amazing natural beauty

One of them is the Serras de Aire Park, which is located on the outskirts of the city. Here, among lush forests and green hills, lies a whole complex of rock formations with caves and grottoes. Some of them are visited by organized excursion groups. During the walk, you can see the traces of real dinosaurs, as well as explore the local beauty from the observation deck, more than 200 meters above sea level. If desired, tourists can choose one of 16 routes for walking or riding a donkey. Those who like to put less physical effort while contemplating nature should rent a boat in Santarem or simply relax on one of the spacious white sand beaches adjacent to the city. There are also excellent opportunities for fishing and horseback riding.

Fans of gastro-tourism will also like Santarem

Local restaurants offer a huge variety of delicacies from meat, vegetables, seafood, exotic fruits. Shopping fans will appreciate the city's covered market, located in a wonderful building of the early 20th century, inlaid with azulejo tiles, depicting scenes from the history of the development of local agricultural industry and trade. There are souvenir and food counters on the territory of the market. A must-see is the annual city fair, which is held every summer and provides an opportunity not only for shopping, but also for acquaintance with local handicrafts, folklore tradition. The event is a lavish promenade, with music, dancing and, of course, bullfighting. If it is not yet possible to visit Portugal, Santarem webcams, which you can watch online on this page, will help you immerse yourself in the cozy atmosphere of these places in real time.