7Monsanto, Portugal
Imagine a village built directly between enormous granite boulders. That’s Monsanto, one of Portugal’s most unusual historic settlements.
Located on a steep hillside, the village appears to have been constructed around the landscape rather than simply on it. Huge rocks form walls, roofs and even parts of individual homes, creating a fascinating mixture of nature and architecture.
Narrow stone streets climb toward the remains of a medieval castle, while traditional houses are tucked into spaces between massive boulders.
Monsanto’s remote location and unusual appearance have helped it remain relatively under the radar internationally. For travelers who enjoy unusual architecture and places with a strong sense of history, this Portuguese village is well worth discovering.
