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Cromeleque dos Almendres

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An Iberian Stonehenge - without the fencing, Cromeleque dos Almendres.

Just a few minutes from Evora in the Alto Alentejo, through a stupendous glade of cork trees lies this group of 95 prehistoric megaliths, some with vague inscriptions visible.
It's not as impressive as England's Stonehenge in size and shape of stones, but the magical aspect of a trip here is the freedom to enjoy the stones without having to buy tickets, stand outside fencing or go elbow-to-elbow with a herd of sightseers.
In May 2004 the only fencing was around the neighbouring cork trees and the only discreet sign gave information in Portuguese and English about the site. No warning notices, no barbed wire, no kiosks, no vendors and practically no other visitors.

There is also a single large stone, Menir dos Almendres, on the same road - bigger but somehow tamed by the farmer's narrow fencing of the approach track.

A little further away at Zamujeirois is a group of Europe's largest dolmen, seven stones each about 6m high, but covered by a metal shelter.

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Portugal Travel and Photos © Julian Loader