The Submerged Treasure of Oeiras
At the mouth of the Tagus River in Oeiras stands one of the lesser-known jewels of Portuguese heritage: the Fort of São Lourenço do Bugio. Built on a small maritime islet, it is unique in the country and dates back to the era of major coastal fortifications, playing a strategic role in defending the Tagus estuary against invasions and pirates. Despite its historical importance, few Oeirenses are aware of its existence, and many pass by the estuary without realizing that centuries of military history lie there. Today, the Bugio remains standing, withstanding the elements and the river’s force, and opens its doors to visitors on organized tours during specific periods of the year. Experts emphasize that discovering and valuing this heritage is crucial to preserving the region’s memory and promoting cultural tourism. For history enthusiasts and the curious, the experience of crossing the Tagus by boat and reaching the fort is unique, offering a close-up view of the engineering and architecture that have endured centuries of turbulent seas. The Bugio thus invites all to rediscover Oeiras’ submerged history and appreciate what often goes unnoticed in everyday urban life.
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