Vila Franca de Xira - Azambuja

Creeks and Large Valleys

The path starts from Jardim Constantino Palha, in Vila Franca de Xira, and heads north through the tomato, rice and corn fields that characterise this region. The ever-present Tagus River continues to dominate the landscape, with its irrigation fields and drainage ditches. At certain times of the year, the landscape is also marked by the huge flocks of storks, herons, and other birds that feed on rice stubble and gather for migration.

The historical urban landscape is also of interest, with hubs of old farms and churches and cultural centres in the villages and towns such as Vila Nova da Rainha. Here we suggest a visit to the Main Church, which offers expansive views over the surrounding fields. The road carries on to Azambuja, an ancient settlement dating back to the Roman times. The 16th century church, dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption, deserves a visit for its 16th and 17th centuries tiles and baroque-carved interior.