Rio Maior, municipality and city in Portugal
Rio Maior is a municipality and city in the Santarém district in central Portugal. The area covers a large expanse of flat, open farmland, while the town center features simple stone buildings along quiet streets that are easy to explore on foot.
The town became a city in 1985 and has a long history centered on salt production from natural salt pans used for centuries. This salt-making industry shaped the local economy and daily life for many generations.
The town takes its name from the nearby river that flows into the Tejo. Local life revolves around farming traditions and homemade food, with regional festivals bringing residents together to share folk music, dancing, and meals passed down through generations.
Rio Maior sits about 80 km from Lisbon and is easily reached by car or bus along scenic country roads lined with farms and small villages. Once there, exploring on foot or by bicycle is the best way to experience the quiet streets and open countryside.
Summer days can grow very hot, reaching around 43 degrees Celsius, while winters remain mild with occasional light frosts. This seasonal variation creates favorable conditions for farming and shapes the region's distinctive climate pattern.
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