Aljustrel

Code: AJT PR2

Geographical location: Aljustrel

Type: Circular walk

Main themes: Mining Complex, Urban Space, Country Scenery

Distance: 12 km

Approximate duration: 3 to 4 hours

Type of surface: Urban paths, wooden walkways, country paths

Ascent/descent: 270 m

Minimum altitude: 137 m

Maximum altitude: 245 m

Level of difficulty: Low

Certifications: Approved by the FCMP (Portuguese Camping and Mountaineering Federation)

Start and finish: The old primary school in front of the 25th of April Garden

Geographical coordinates: N37º52'39'' W08º09'46''

Geographical coordinates: 37.877609º -8.162922º

Where to park: Public car park at the site.

Telephone: +351 284 600 075 / 284 009 131

E-mail: turismo@mun-aljustrel.pt

This is the famous Roman Vipasca, one of the major mining centres in the empire, which broke new ground deep below the earth’s surface. Later it was the Islamic "Al-lustre”, a term that clearly refers to the lustre and light that could be seen on the surface in the form of pyrites and their geological counterparts. However, Aljustrel also has glistening grain fields, dotted with old-growth trees, cut across by small streams and cradled by charming never-ending scenery, sweeping views and endless soul.

The town of Aljustrel lives from and for the mine. It is so deeply framed by the mine that almost all of the surrounding area is a mining town, with some seams being worked and others already stabilised and museumised. Even the subsoil of the urban space is exploited in its depths. Much of what exists on the surface can now be seen on this route, which also takes in the rural world that lives beyond that of the mining industry.