Sesimbra

A bit about the history of Sesimbra...

1 - A bit about the history of Sesimbra...

Sesimbra's history dates back to the Roman period, when it was a fishing village called Cempsibriga.

They took advantage of its coastal location and maritime riches to develop fishing and maritime trade activities here, making Sesimbra an important port on the west coast of Portugal.

During the Middle Ages, Sesimbra was conquered by the Moors and fortified. On top of the old Moorish castle, today stands Sesimbra Castle, built by the Christians after the reconquest of the region in 1165.

In the following years, fishing and maritime trade flourished and during the 16th century, Sesimbra was the target of foreign attacks and invasions, resulting in the construction of the Fort of Santiago - one of the city's main tourist attractions.
 

During the Age of Discovery, Sesimbra played a crucial role in supporting maritime expeditions, namely as a shipbuilding and supply port.

From the 19th century onwards, thanks to its beautiful coastal scenery and mild climate, Sesimbra began to develop as a popular holiday destination for the Portuguese elite.

Today, Sesimbra is the destination of choice for those looking for the beach, nautical activities and seafood. Fishing and activities linked to the sea continue to play an important role in the local economy.
 

a. Architecture in Sesimbra

The architecture in Sesimbra is a testament to its rich cultural heritage, dating back centuries.

Here you'll find a medieval hilltop fortress, an imposing Baroque sanctuary and a church that combines Renaissance and late Gothic styles - the Church of Santa Maria.

As you explore its narrow, picturesque streets, you'll find traditional houses 
painted in bright colors, creating a fresh and vibrant atmosphere. Old "fishermen's houses" can be found along the coast.
 

2 - The municipality of Sesimbra in Numbers

The municipality of Sesimbra belongs to the district of Setúbal and is part of the Lisbon Metropolitan Area.

3 - Why choose to live in Sesimbra?

With its privileged location between the sea and the mountains, Sesimbra has a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those looking for a serene lifestyle.

So, if you live in Sesimbra, you'll enjoy all the benefits of living in a quiet community, just a 40 minuts drive from the Portuguese capital, where you'll find all the amenities of a cosmopolitan city.

The area is blessed with golden sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, some of which have been awarded the "Gold Quality" award, such as Bicas beach and Meco beach.

The nearby Serra da Arrábida Nature Reserve offers residents the chance to practice outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and horse riding.

The local gastronomy is an added advantage, especially the fresh fish dishes - "cataplana", grilled fish and the famous Sesimbra "caldeirada". Some even say that "the best fish in the world is from Sesimbra".
 

Inauguration of the statue of Dom Pedro IV © Arquivo Municipal de Lisboa

What to see and do in Sesimbra?

When it comes to beaches, Sesimbra has something for everyone!
If you're looking for urban beaches with a wide range of bars and restaurants, you'll find Ouro Beach and Califórnia Beach side by side.
If, on the other hand, you prefer more secluded and quiet beaches, you'll enjoy exploring Foz Beach and Rio da Prata Beach.
If you're a fan of adventure, we recommend Ribeira do Cavalo Beach and Cova da Mijona Beach. These are only accessible by trail and are true hidden paradises!
Don't forget the beautiful Lagoa de Albufeira, a place where the sea meets a freshwater lagoon.
 

Classified as a National Monument since 1910, Sesimbra Castle is the last medieval castle on the Portuguese coast. Within its walls, you can explore exhibition halls with historical artifacts and information about the region's history; a keep; a chapel dedicated to Santa Maria; and a courtyard that once served as a training area (during sieges). 
From the top of the walls, you can also enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view over the town of Sesimbra, the Atlantic Ocean and the Serra da Arrábida.
A must-see for lovers of history, architecture and natural beauty!
Free admission
Opening hours Summer opening hours: 10h00 - 20h00  |  Winter: 07h00 - 19h00
 

Built at a time when danger came from the sea, the Fortress of Santiago is a historic fortress that played a key role in the defense of the region. Due to its strategic location, it was possible to monitor the entrance to Sesimbra Bay, controlling the arrival of suspicious vessels.
Today, the fortress houses a small museum that explains the maritime and military history of the town. Here you'll find nautical artifacts, ancient weapons and paintings depicting the life of Sesimbra's sailors and fishermen.
From its ramparts, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding coastline.
Free entry
Opening hours From 9.30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Cabo Espichel is a wild promontory bathed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and is a place of indescribable beauty and grandeur.
Located in the Serra da Arrábida, the cape offers impressive views of the Atlantic coastline, where rugged cliffs touch the ocean.
In addition, the site has a rich historical heritage. In the 18th century, the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel was built here, a majestic church perched atop the cliffs. Every year, thousands of tourists visit this place of pilgrimage and devotion.
A true natural and cultural treasure!
 

With an area of approximately 17,000 hectares (of which more than 5,000 are marine), the Arrábida Natural Park is an ecological sanctuary known for its numerous and varied fauna and flora.
Visitors can explore the park via signposted trails or enjoy recreational activities in the sea, such as snorkeling. The park is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with a great diversity of species inhabiting the region.
Among the fascinating natural landscapes that can be seen here are the coastal cliffs, where the dense green of the mountains and the turquoise blue of the sea come together in incomparable beauty.

A true natural gem!
 

Where to eat and drink:

The seafood restaurant “O Rodinhas” was founded in 1922, and since then friendliness and good humor have been a part of the people who work here.
Among the house specialties, apart from seafood, of course, are fried cuttlefish, snails, fried snails and even "francesinhas".
Still, the most requested dish on the menu is the seafood wheel, a round platter containing four varieties of seafood - Guillo-style prawns, boiled shrimp, stuffed crab, crab legs and mouths and stuffed conch.

A cozy place with a philosophy of sharing and conviviality!

Average price 17€

Opening hours Monday to Saturday: 12h30 - 22h30 | Sunday: 12h00 - 22h30 (Closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays)

©O Rodinhas

Zagaia is a cool seafood restaurant known for combining modernity with tradition.
The project was born out of the desire of three friends to give a second life to a landmark restaurant in Sesimbra that had been closed for several years - Marisqueira Zagaia.
The menu highlights the customs of Sesimbra, with dishes in which fish and seafood are king. Under the command of Chef Paulo Carvalho, here you can try the famous rice of carabineiro and seaweed, razor clams with hollandaise sauce and cuttlefish croquettes with black garlic mayonnaise.
Come and visit this renovated space and enjoy the delicacies that the sea offers us in a relaxed and cosmopolitan atmosphere!

Average price 20€ - 35€
Opening hours 12h30 - 15h00 / 19h00 - 22h30 (Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
 

©Zagaia

Casa Mateus was founded in 1927 by the great-grandfather of the current owner - Pedro Mateus. Unfortunately, the restaurant closed in 1982. 
In 2013, Pedro decided to continue the family legacy, with the help of his parents. Thus, he reopened Casa Mateus with the promise of living up to its acclaimed name.
The restaurant is dedicated to the more traditional flavors of the fishing village, with a menu full of flavor. Among the house's most iconic dishes are "caldeirada" and seafood rice.
Come and enjoy a memorable meal in a quiet and intimate setting, where good cuisine and friendly service are guaranteed! 
Average price 20€ - 30€
Opening hours  Wednesday to Sunday: 12h00 - 15h00 / 19h00 - 22h00 | Tuesday: 19h00 - 22h00 (Closed on Mondays)
 

©Casa Mateus

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