🏞️ Ocreza Archaeological and Environmental Park
✨ Nature, History and Adventure in the Heart of Mação ✨
Discover one of the most remarkable and authentic destinations in the municipality of Mação! The Ocreza Archaeological and Environmental Park stretches for approximately 14 kilometres along the valleys of the Pracana Stream, the Ocreza River and the banks of the Tagus River, between the magnificent Pego da Rainha and the historic Barca da Amieira.
🌿 Surrounded by deep valleys, quartzite cliffs, crystal-clear waterways and breathtaking landscapes, this is an outstanding destination for lovers of nature, heritage and outdoor adventure.
🥾 In the Blue Mountains of Mação
Nestled within the stunning Blue Mountains of Mação, the Park offers unique experiences for those who enjoy exploring on foot. Along the walking trails of the Rotas de Mação, visitors can discover spectacular scenery, cross areas of outstanding ecological value and experience a truly unique natural and cultural heritage.
🦅 A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
The impressive quartzite escarpments of the valley provide an ideal habitat for a wide range of bird species. Among them are the majestic griffon vultures, often seen soaring above the Ocreza Valley, creating unforgettable moments for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
📸 With a little luck, visitors may also spot eagles, falcons and other birds of prey that thrive in this well-preserved ecosystem.
🪨 Rock Art Thousands of Years Old
Rock art has been known in this region since the mid-20th century. Thanks to the work carried out by the Museum of Prehistoric Art of Mação and the Institute of Earth and Memory, an archaeological heritage of exceptional national significance has been revealed.
🔎 Throughout the valley, visitors can find rock engravings and paintings that bear witness to human presence over thousands of years, from the Upper Palaeolithic to, most likely, the Middle Ages.
🔥 In the Cobragrança (Caratão) area, heavily affected by the 2003 wildfires, circular engravings dating from the Bronze Age have been identified.
🐎 In the valleys of Souto and Rovinhosa, more than 30 rock engravings have been discovered, including:
✅ An impressive headless horse depicted in Palaeolithic style;
🦌 Several deer figures of the “Tagus style”;
🧍 Schematic anthropomorphic representations;
🌀 Circles, spirals and other abstract motifs of great archaeological significance.
⏳ This extraordinary artistic ensemble reflects thousands of years of human occupation, from the Megalithic period to the Bronze Age.
🌿 An Experience for All the Senses
Whether you wish to walk scenic trails, admire breathtaking landscapes, observe wildlife, photograph nature or travel back in time through ancient rock art, the Ocreza Archaeological and Environmental Park offers an authentic, enriching and unforgettable experience.
👥 The rock art sites can be visited through guided tours led by the Museum's specialist staff, subject to prior booking.
📍 Ocreza Archaeological and Environmental Park
🥾 Walking Trails in the Blue Mountains of Mação
🦅 Griffon Vulture and Bird of Prey Watching
🪨Ancient Rock Art
🌿 Unspoilt Nature
📸 Stunning Landscapes
🚶 Adventure and Discovery
⏳ A Journey Through History and Nature
✨ Come and explore the trails of the Blue Mountains of Mação, watch griffon vultures soaring above the valley and discover the secrets carved into stone over thousands of years! ✨