Lourinhã

On the Atlantic coast west of Lisbon, Lourinhã is the dinosaur capital of Portugal. Its cliffs have yielded some of the most important Jurassic fossils in Europe, and its long beaches, farmland and quiet old town give it a character all of its own.

History and identity

The town grew from a medieval settlement into a farming centre of the west, known for its orchards and its aguardente — a protected brandy made from local fruit. In recent decades, the discovery of dinosaur nests, eggs and embryos in its cliffs brought the town international attention.

What to see and do

• The dinosaur museum, with its Jurassic fossils and eggs.
• The Dino Park, with life-size dinosaurs in the open air.
• The old town and its church.
• The beaches and cliffs along the coast.

Gastronomy and traditions

Lourinhã is known for its aguardente, its fruit and its seafood, caught along the Atlantic coast. Its festivals and fairs are part of the calendar of the west of Portugal.

Nearby

The Dino Park Lourinhã is just outside the town, and the fishing town of Peniche is a short drive north.

Visiting Lourinhã

Lourinhã is in the west of Portugal, about 70 kilometres north of Lisbon, reached by road. Access to the town is free; for the museum and Dino Park, check the official website before your visit.

Visitor information: cm-lourinha.pt.

Image credit: Lourinhã, Portugal, by Alexkom000, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.