The best MTB trails around Serpa (Santa Maria)

The Serpa Aqueduct is a well-preserved gem that speaks to the strategic importance of this town and its role throughout history. If you're passing through here, I recommend paying it a visit.

This aqueduct is a remarkable example of ancient hydraulic engineering, designed to transport water from external sources to the city centre.Originally built in Roman times and then extensively modified and expanded in subsequent centuries, particularly during the medieval and modern periods, the aqueduct features a series of sturdy arches that crisscross the landscape.

Azenha da Ordem is a true hidden treasure, a watermill that reserves a pleasant surprise for those who discover it. Situated in a privileged position, here the water flows with surprising power and abundance, creating a vibrant and vital atmosphere. This enchanting place is one of those beautiful, evocative and almost intimate places that Portugal holds. Still little known and little visited, Azenha da Ordem offers an authentic experience, allowing you to enjoy a rare privilege: the uncontaminated beauty and tranquility of a corner of the world where nature and history blend harmoniously.

Here you can easily access the cool waters of the Rio Guardiana and cool off, especially on the hottest days.

This aqueduct is a remarkable example of ancient hydraulic engineering, designed to transport water from external sources to the city centre. Originally built in Roman times and then extensively modified and expanded in subsequent centuries, particularly during the medieval and modern periods, the aqueduct features a series of sturdy arches that crisscross the landscape.

The Azenha, watermill, is a characteristic element of the Portuguese rural landscape, deeply linked to local history and traditions. These ancient buildings were powered by the force of watercourses, here the Rio Guardiana, and used mainly to grind cereals such as wheat and corn.

The Serpa Aqueduct is an unusual piece of Portuguese engineering due to the fact that it was a private undertaking. It was built at the end of the 17th century to serve the Manor of the Counts of Ficalho, which is located in one of the sections of the Serpa wall. The most interesting part of the structure is located next to the Porta de Beja, where the aqueduct is supported by arches built into the wall. At the end of the aqueduct we find a Moorish waterwheel, leaning against the wall and serving as a buttress to the aqueduct itself.

In the 12th century, this huge aqueduct was built to share water with the population. To this date, it has been maintained and it has became one of Serpa's landmark, very well illuminated at night. You can see the aqueduct when you are a few km away from the city, and the view is breathtaking when you are close to it. Please note that right next to the walls and aqueduct, you can find Olive trees that are 1000-year old ! A must see, a must-take-a-picture, and must relax in the cozy green benches that are just in front of the aqueduct - Especially in hot sunny days.