"Another Masterpiece by Marquês de Pombal " a Vila Real de Santo António Travel Page by global84

Vila Real de Santo António occupies a strategic location at the mouth of Rio Guadiana, one of the largest rivers on the Iberian Peninsula, that creates a natural border between Spain and Portugal. There are about 20,000 residents living in the town, and everyday one can feel liveliness in its central square (Praça Marquês de Pombal) or the boardwalk along the river.

There is a direct bus service from Lisboa Sete Rios, via Faro, Olhão, and Tavira. Also, it is the easternmost terminus of Linha do Algarve, which connects the town until Faro, and some all the way to Lagos, the westernmost station. To the Spanish riverside town of Ayamonte, there are very frequent ferry services once every 30 minutes or so. The tourism office has maps and other information about the town and other places in Algarve in various languages.

There is no monument or museum of a historical importance to visit, but this town is well worth visiting only to walk around the town. Why? Read the next section.

People who have been to Portugal, or who have an interest in Portugal know that Marquês de Pombal was in charge of rebuilding Lisbon after the Earthquake of 1755, whose core was near western Algarve coast. Being one of the first planned city in the world, the Baixa district of Lisbon shows a strict grid pattern which makes it very easy for people to find their ways around.

Those who come to Vila Real de Santo António will find much similiarities of the town with Lisbon, from the low-lying buildings to the grid pattern of streets. In fact, this town was Pombal's second work, showing another example of urban planning. Therefore, it is impossible to lose your way in this small town, and you can enjoy its bright atmosphere as well.