In a remote past, in particular up to the definition of the border line with Castile, which would isolate it from the centuries-old connection to the rest of Andalusia, Mértola was an important and lively trading post, the northernmost port on the great Guadiana road.

Its privileged situation and location, occupying a steep hill surrounded by the Oeiras river and the Guadiana, ensured enviable conditions of defense, reinforced with the imposing walls that strapped the whole set up of the old city.

The combination of these factors gave Mértola a historical importance that the present small town, oblivious to the status it boasted of a pre-Roman city, capital of a taifa kingdom and the first seat of knights of the Order of Santiago, far surpasses. (Source: IPPAR)


What to visit

- Visit to the Castle of Mértola (10th century) and its museums.

- Visit to the old Mina de São Domingos (circuit with placards explaining the mining activity and the geology of the area)

- Church of Our Lady of the Annunciation (former 12th century mosque)

- Islamic Festival (next edition in 2009)

- Natural Park of the Guadiana Valley

- Visit to the cellars of the "Herdade dos Grous" wine producer (about 40 minutes by car from Mértola).
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