Step Back into Prehistoric Lisbon
While the bustling streets of modern-day Lisbon offer a vibrant atmosphere, a profound sense of antiquity awaits you just beyond the city's immediate center. In the municipality of Oeiras, specifically within the parish of Barcarena, lies the Castro de Leceia. This archaeological site offers you an immersive journey into the Eneolithic period, where the echoes of ancient life are preserved in stone and earth.
A Landscape of Ancient Evolution
Walking through this protected monument, you can trace the physical evolution of a settlement that was occupied for millennia. The site reflects four distinct phases of human history:
- The Early Settlement: Experience the atmosphere of the upper Neolithic, where the first inhabitants built circular houses in an era before defensive structures were necessary.
- Growth and Defense: Witness the transition to the lower Chalcolithic, marked by the construction of limestone walls spanning 11,000 square meters with three protected entrances.
- The Peak of Activity: Explore the middle Chalcolithic period, a time of economic height where copper metallurgy became widespread and defensive structures were reinforced.
- Final Transformations: See the upper Chalcolithic additions, including the construction of ellipsoidal houses and the appearance of bell beakers with acacia leaf decorations.
Artifacts of the Past
The site provides a tangible connection to the daily lives of those who lived here thousands of years ago. While roaming the grounds, you can imagine the activities that took place within these walls. The archaeological record reveals a rich tapestry of life:
- Tools and Industry: The presence of copper fish hooks, axes, millstones, adzes, and loom weights speaks to a community engaged in fishing, crafting, and agriculture.
- Artisanal Craft: Discover the legacy of bone-crafted beads and pins, as well as specialized ceramics that shifted in style over centuries.
- Material Wealth: The presence of copper ingots and a copper axe signifies the site's historical importance as a center for metallurgical work.
Connecting with History
To fully appreciate the heritage of Castro de Leceia, you can visit the nearby Fábrica da Pólvora de Barcarena, located just two kilometers from the site. This location hosts a permanent exhibition dedicated specifically to the Castro, allowing you to see many of the original findings—such as the distinctive bell beakers and metal works—presented in an educational setting.
From the limestone walls that once guarded Neolithic families to the copper tools they forged, the Castro de Leceia offers a rare opportunity to stand where history was made. Begin your exploration in Barcarena to witness the enduring legacy of Portugal's prehistoric past.