Sítio Arqueológico de São Cucufate, Roman archaeological site in Vila de Frades, Portugal
Villa Romana de São Cucufate is a Roman estate in Vila de Frades with a two-part structure separating agricultural areas below from residential quarters above, complete with balconies. The buildings demonstrate how wealthy Roman landowners organized their properties.
The estate was built in the 1st century and experienced major expansions during the 3rd century. In the 4th century, decorative mosaics were added, reflecting the wealth of its residents.
The site began as a Roman farming estate and later transformed into a religious center where two churches dedicated to Saint Cucufate were built one after the other over the centuries.
The site is accessible to visitors with guided tours through the preserved structures. An on-site museum displays findings like ceramics, coins, and ancient mosaics that document daily life from that era.
The estate is Portugal's largest Roman villa and displays vertical architecture that differs from the typical horizontal layout of Roman residences. This unusual construction method makes it an example of regional Roman building traditions.
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