Alter do Chão

Alter do Chão is a municipality in the Alentejo region that encompasses four civil parishes across its territory. The administrative structure connects these distinct communities into a single jurisdiction.

Founded in 1232, this municipality became an important administrative center during medieval times in Portugal. Its establishment marked a turning point in how the region organized its governance structure.

The community celebrates Ascension Day as its annual gathering, bringing people from all quarters together for shared traditions rooted in the region. This celebration reflects how residents maintain ties across the four parishes that make up the municipality.

Visitors encounter a spread-out area with multiple towns, each with its own postal codes and local services. Knowing which parish you are heading to before arriving helps with navigation and finding local resources.

The area is home to a specialized secondary school focused on equestrian training, reflecting the region's connection to horse culture. This institution draws students interested in pursuing careers in horsemanship and related fields.