Cultural Preservation and Promotion
The Alentejo region is rich with history, culture and ________. It has stood the test of time and is still celebrated within the region and beyond. At Alentejo Alliance we seek work with the community to continue the celebration and protection of that culture.
International Archaeological Projects Bring New Research and Visitors to the Alentejo
South-West Archaeology Digs (SWAD) is carrying out two major archaeological research and training projects in the Alentejo, at Castelo Velho de Safara (Moura) and Porto da Lama (Alcácer do Sal), bringing international students, academic research and cultural visibility to the region.
At Castelo Velho de Safara, SWAD is investigating a hilltop settlement with occupations dating from the Copper Age, Late Iron Age and the Roman Republican period. Recent excavations have focused on Roman Republican domestic structures, helping to clarify how rural communities lived, built and organised space in the interior of the Alentejo over two thousand years ago. The work is carried out in close collaboration with local authorities and benefits directly from the integration of students into the village of Safara, where they live and interact with the community during their stay.
At Porto da Lama, in Alcácer do Sal, the project focuses on a Roman riverside villa with mosaic floors, located along the ancient Sado estuary. Excavations are contributing to a better understanding of Roman rural settlement, trade and elite life in southern Portugal, while also laying the groundwork for future conservation and public presentation of the site.
Both projects operate as international archaeological field schools, attracting students mainly from Europe, North America and Australia. These participants receive hands-on training in excavation, recording and archaeological interpretation while contributing to the scientific study and long-term protection of Alentejo’s cultural heritage. At the same time, their presence supports local communities through accommodation, services and cultural exchange.
Through research, education and collaboration, SWAD’s work at Castelo Velho de Safara and Porto da Lama highlights the Alentejo as a key region for understanding Portugal’s deep past and for developing sustainable, heritage-based international engagement.
