Pinsteps. Nazaré’s Funicular: A Viewpoint Through History
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The clifftop village of Sítio, the upper station of Nazaré's iconic funicular, offers one of the most breathtaking panoramas in Portugal. The vast Atlantic Ocean stretches endlessly from this point, its waves rolling toward the golden sands of Praia da Nazaré below. This beach, once a humble fishing hub, has now transformed into a global destination for big-wave surfers. The scenic spot is not just a gateway to the region's rich history, but also an inspiration of transformation and evolution.

Nazaré’s story begins long before its rise to fame as a surfing paradise. During the Roman period, this coastline was part of Lusitania, a vital province of the Roman Empire. While Nazaré, as we know it today, didn’t exist, nearby Roman towns like Eburobrittium and Collippo thrived as centres of trade and culture. These connections likely extended to Nazaré’s shores, where the abundant marine life was crucial in supporting Roman industry.

Among the Romans’ greatest culinary treasures was garum, a prized fermented fish sauce made from small fish such as anchovies and mackerel. The Nazaré Canyon, a deep underwater trench, enriched these waters with marine biodiversity, making the region ideal for garum production. This flavorful delicacy symbolised Roman wealth and trade, with jars of Lusitanian garum shipped across the empire. The appreciation of the region's natural resources adds a layer of admiration for the historical significance of Nazaré.

As you stand at Sítio’s viewpoint, the vast seascape whispers stories of a thriving ancient economy tied to the ocean’s abundance. From whales feeding on schooling fish to fishermen crafting delicacies for Roman feasts, the history of Nazaré is as deep and vibrant as the waters of the Atlantic. Today, the funicular not only connects visitors to a stunning clifftop village, but also to the echoes of an enduring coastal legacy, sparking intrigue and eagerness to explore.


Pictures uploaded by @Evgeny Praisman
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Evgeny Praisman
A Walk Through Nazaré: From Ocean to Legend. Sep 14, 2024

Start your journey at Nazaré’s beach, where the scent of the sea and the bustle of fresh seafood restaurants set the tone. From here, make your way to the historic funicular, a 19th-century marvel connecting the lower town to Sítio, the cliffside district perched high above.

At the top, visit Ermida da Memória, the small chapel tied to the legend of Dom Fuas Roupinho. In 1182, while chasing a deer on horseback, he narrowly avoided plunging off the cliff when he prayed to the Virgin Mary, who miraculously stopped his horse. Nearby, the Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo, built in the 16th century, stands as a guardian over Praia do Norte, where the world’s largest waves draw surfers from across the globe.

On your descent, stroll through the nostalgic streets of Nazaré’s lower town, where tiled facades, narrow alleys, and the rhythm of local life immerse you in the town’s enduring spirit. This walk captures Nazaré’s dual essence: the raw power of the ocean and the intimate charm of its community.

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Evgeny Praisman (author)
Здравствуйте! Меня зовут Женя, я путешественник и гид. Здесь я публикую свои путешествия и путеводители по городам и странам. Вы можете воспользоваться ими, как готовыми путеводителями, так и ресурсом для создания собственных маршрутов. Некоторые находятся в свободном доступе, некоторые открываются по промо коду. Чтобы получить промо код напишите мне сообщение на телефон +972 537907561 или на epraisman@gmail.com и я с радостью вам помогу! Иначе, зачем я всё это делаю?
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