Whether you are traveling to the Portuguese town of Setubal for business or pleasure, there are many things to do while you are there. From the quaint art galleries and restaurants to the imposing forts and churches, there is something for everyone.
House of the Holy Body
Located in the port city of Setubal, Portugal, the Holy House of Loreto is one of the most venerated of all places of pilgrimage. It is said to be the site of the birth of Mary, the Mother of God, and is considered a mystical site by pilgrims of the Catholic persuasion. Its many glories are awe-inspiring, but the most spectacular of them is the one that occurred in 1291, the year of salvation. In the following decades, the location was moved from the holy lands to Tersato in Illyria, a southwestern province of Greece. It was eventually deconstructed and returned to its former glory in the mid-twentieth century.
Fortaleza de Sao Filipe fort
Located on Setubal Peninsula, Fort Sao Filipe or fort of Sao Filipe in Portugal is named after the first Portuguese king, Filipe I. It was built to protect the city's port against pirates. It was completed in the 16th century. The fort was also important for controlling and defending the country's access to the Sado River.
Setubal has many historical monuments. The old quarter is ideal for a stroll. It features cobblestone streets and traditional buildings. A lively covered market is also found here. The castle is a beautiful national monument.
The Forte de Sao Filipe is now a luxury hotel. It is located on a hill overlooking the Atlantic. The fortified ramparts offer great views of Setubal. It is a popular tourist attraction.
Quinta da Bacalhoa
Located in the small town of Azeitao, Quinta da Bacalhoa is one of the best things to do in Setubal. This prestigious estate consists of a palace, vineyards, and a winery. Its gardens were designed by the Bras de Albuquerque in the 16th century. They were restored in the 1930s to the former glory of Italian Renaissance garden design.
The Quinta da Bacalhoa estate offers tours and tastings. You can also explore the museum, which has a collection of rare art from around the world. You can learn about the history of the estate and its founders. There is also a Japanese Garden, which is a peaceful oasis of greenery.
Casa da Baia
Originally a cloister, the 18th century building is now a multi-functional space. It offers local art displays, local produce and is also the place to buy local wines. There is also a dining room and a small deli.
Setubal Bay is one of the best-kept secrets in southern Portugal. Its location between the Sado River and the Troia Peninsula makes for a stunning waterfront. Its proximity to the sea means that it has plenty of fish restaurants and water-based activities. The area is also home to one of Portugal's most beautiful beaches, Portinho da Arrabida.
The Livramento Market is a traditional city market that offers fresh seafood, vegetables and fruit. The market walls are covered with over 5,000 tile panels depicting daily life.
O Farol
Located on the waterfront in the town of Portinho da Arrabida, O Farol is one of the best places to enjoy a seafood meal. This restaurant is also famous for its great service. You can sit on the waterfront and have a relaxing lunch or dinner. The restaurant has an old-school feel and offers good food at reasonable prices.
Setubal has a plethora of attractions to see. It is a city with plenty of interesting landmarks, ranging from museums and churches to the Arrabida Natural Park. The area is also known for its fishing industry. You can try your hand at fishing or take a boat tour. You can also visit the nearby beaches.
Art in Setubal
Besides the delicious wine and food, Setubal is an interesting place to visit with lots of activities. It's also a good destination for art lovers, thanks to the local artists' creations, which can be found on the streets.
The most important building in Setubal is the Igreja de Jesus. It is the earliest Manueline style building in Portugal, and its entry influenced many other buildings. The church's interior is painted in geometric azulejos green tiles. This building was built in the mid-18th century.
Another famous building is the Setubal Castle, which was commissioned by Philip II of Spain. It is now the symbol of the city's wealth and power. It was designed by Italian military engineer Filippo Terzi, and has an elaborate stone tunnel in the interior.