Alenquer Tourist Attractions
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The seemingly rather sleepy little town of Alenquer (altitude: 160m/525ft), is tucked away about 45km/28mi north of Lisbon. Its population is mainly employed in the woolen and papermaking industries. It was the birthplace of the navigator and pilot Pero de Alenquer who was with Bartolomeu Dias when he discovered the Cape of Good Hope and with Vasco da Gama on his expedition to discover the sea route to India. Pero, a man of humble origin, won a great reputation for his extraordinary achievements, earning himself the nickname "prince of pilots" and access to the court. His exploits were vividly described in the writings of the diplomat and chronicler of Manuel I, Daimao de Góis (1507-71), scion of a noble Alenquer family.TownscapeAlenquer's particular charm lies in its setting, with even the simplest of its houses clinging picturesquely to the slopes of the hillside on which it stands.
Convent of Sao Francisco
Above the town, and only partially accessible, is the Convent of Sao Francisco, the oldest Franciscan house in Portugal, founded in 1222 during the saint's lifetime.
Museu de Hipólito Cabaço
The local museum is the Museu de Hipólito Cabaço containing archeological (particularly Stone Age) material.
Vila Franca de Xira, Portugal
Vila Franca de Xira, some 10km/3mi south of Alenquer, is the center of Portuguese bullfighting where most of the fighting bulls are bred.
Feira de Outubro
The October Fair involves a range of festivities, including bull running, bullfights, and other general amusements.
Festival of the Red Waistcoat
The lively "Festival of the Red Waistcoat", with processions and bullfights, is celebrated every July.
Agrinxira
The "Agrinxira" agricultural and livestock show is held annually in May.
