Talking about the Lines of Torres Vedras is not just about evoking a vestige of warring times or recalling an exceptional military strategy. This heritage represents much more: it is a symbol of the resilience and ingenuity of a people who, in times of great adversity, knew how to build a defence that goes far beyond its military value, becoming a living heritage in the Portuguese landscape and cultural identity.
The Historical Route of the Lines of Torres Vedras reflects on the potential of this heritage as a source of cultural and economic dynamism, on a journey through the past that today is also a testimony to innovation where heritage tourism is combined with technology, education and sustainability, without ever losing sight of respect for its origins.
In this issue, we highlight the comic ‘O Forte’, by José Bandeira, with whom we spoke in our usual interview. We take you back in time to the siege of Almeida, reliving one of the most remarkable episodes in our history, and we explore the Earth’s distant past at Dino Parque da Lourinhã.
We also pay tribute to the Mafra National Palace Library, a masterpiece of Enlightenment-era knowledge and cultural splendour.
We also tell you about the ceremony to commemorate the National Day of the Lines of Torres Vedras, celebrated on 20 October, and the historical re-enactment that then animated Sobral de Monte Agraço.
This issue is therefore a farewell to 2024 — and a welcome to 2025 — that celebrates the identity, cultural richness and possibilities for discovery of the Lines of Torres Vedras, with a keen eye on the future. We invite you to dive into the magazine and relive with us the history that connects us, that defines us and that we are proud to share.