Family Adventure in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park

A Journey Through Time

Today was a day of stepping back in time, a chance to connect with Portugal's rich and diverse history. From exploring a medieval synagogue to wandering among ancient lime kilns, the experiences were both educational and deeply moving. It’s days like these that remind me why I love traveling – the opportunity to learn, to reflect, and to share these discoveries with all of you.

Our morning began in the charming town of Castelo de Vide. After a hearty breakfast at Snack Bar Restaurante Boavista, where the strong coffee fueled our anticipation for the day, we set out to explore the Sinagoga de Castelo de Vide.


Explore the historic Sinagoga de Castelo de Vide, a captivating museum showcasing the rich Jewish heritage of Portugal in a charming setting.

As an IT consultant, I often find myself immersed in the world of technology, but I've always had a deep appreciation for history and the stories it holds. This synagogue, now a museum, offered a poignant glimpse into Portugal's Jewish heritage. The Sinagoga de Castelo de Vide is one of the oldest synagogues in Portugal, dating back to the 14th century. It served the Jewish community until the expulsion edict of 1496. What struck me most was the resilience of the community, who continued to use the synagogue in secret even after the forced conversions. The building itself is a testament to history, with its two-story structure and ogival stone arches. Inside, we saw the 15th-century carved stone Torah ark, rediscovered in 1972, a powerful symbol of faith and perseverance. Lina was surprisingly engaged, asking questions about the people who once prayed there and the challenges they faced. It’s important for her to understand these stories, to learn about the complexities of history and the importance of tolerance.

History is not just a collection of dates and facts; it is a tapestry of human experiences, woven with threads of joy, sorrow, resilience, and hope.

After the synagogue, we stopped for lunch at Cavalinho.


Discover authentic Alentejo cuisine at Cavalinho in Portalegre - where tradition meets taste.

We enjoyed traditional Alentejo cuisine. Mei and I shared a plate of migas, a local specialty made with bread, garlic, and pork. Lina, of course, opted for something a little less adventurous – grilled chicken with fries. It’s these small moments, sharing a meal and laughing together, that make our family trips so special.

In the afternoon, we drove to Caleiras da Escusa, ancient lime kilns located a short distance from Castelo de Vide.


Discover the historical significance and stunning architecture of Caleiras da Escusa in São Salvador da Aramenha, a true gem of Portugal's heritage.

These kilns, dating back to Roman times, were once used to produce lime from the local limestone. As we approached the site, the landscape transformed into something out of a history book. Nineteen kilns dotted the area, nine of them grouped together, silent witnesses to centuries of industry.

The Caleiras da Escusa offered a fascinating look at the industrial history of the region. These structures, built from local materials, showcase the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people who lived here. It’s humbling to think about the generations who toiled in this place, transforming stone into lime using only the simplest of tools.

As we walked around the kilns, I tried to imagine what life must have been like for the workers. The heat, the dust, the back-breaking labor – it was a world far removed from my comfortable life in Berlin. Yet, there was a certain beauty in the simplicity of it all, a connection to the land and a sense of purpose that is often lacking in our modern lives. Lina, ever curious, collected small stones and asked about the process of making lime. I explained how the limestone was heated in the kilns, transforming it into a valuable building material. It was a hands-on history lesson, far more engaging than anything she could learn from a textbook.

Before heading back, we stopped at Multishop to pick up a few souvenirs.


Discover a diverse shopping experience at Multishop in Loulé, featuring electronics, toys, and accessories for all ages.

Lina chose a small, hand-painted tile depicting the Castelo de Vide skyline, while Mei found a beautiful cork handbag. I opted for a bottle of local olive oil, a taste of the Alentejo to bring back to Berlin.

For dinner, we decided to try Restaurante O Malagueta, known for its traditional Portuguese dishes.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante O Malagueta in Portalegre – where tradition meets flavor.

The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including grilled sardines, pork with clams (Carne de Porco à Alentejana), and a hearty vegetable soup. The food was delicious, simple, and authentic, a true taste of Portugal.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on everything we had seen and experienced. From the solemn halls of the synagogue to the ancient kilns of Escusa, we had journeyed through time, connecting with the stories of those who came before us. It was a day of learning, of reflection, and of appreciation for the rich tapestry of human history.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to visit Torre Medieval da Portagem and the Portas do Ródão Natural Monument. It sounds like another day filled with history and natural beauty, and I can’t wait to share it with you all. I'm particularly excited about Portas de Rodao Natural Monument, as I hear it offers some spectacular views and unique geological formations. It will be a chance to immerse ourselves in the stunning landscapes of the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park and discover even more of Portugal's hidden gems.

Evenings like this, sitting down to write and reflect, make me appreciate the journey even more. As someone who transitioned from the structured world of Singapore's tech industry to the more flexible life of a freelance IT consultant in Berlin, I've learned to value these moments of connection and discovery. And sharing them with my family, especially Lina, makes it all the more meaningful. Traveling is not just about seeing new places; it's about creating lasting memories and deepening our understanding of the world and each other.