Sítio Arqueológico de São Cucufate

The Villa of São Cucufate features two main sections: a ground floor for agricultural operations and an upper level containing residential quarters with balconies.

Built in the first century, the villa underwent major expansions in the third century and received decorative enhancements with mosaics in the fourth century.

The site transformed from a Roman agricultural center into a religious complex, housing two successive churches dedicated to Saint Cucufate between the ninth and eighteenth centuries.

The archaeological site offers daily guided tours through its preserved structures and a museum displaying artifacts, including ceramics, coins, and ancient mosaics.

Standing as Portugal's largest Roman villa, the complex demonstrates vertical architecture rather than the traditional horizontal layout common in Roman residential structures.

Location: Vila de Frades

GPS coordinates: 38.22361,-7.84528

Latest update: March 5, 2025 16:40