Watchtower constructed in UNESCO geopark to support ecotourism in Portugal

The tower, which is one of several structures dedicated to ecotourism in the area, presents the latest technology and features photovoltaic panels on the roof for electricity

Spotted:  A 16-metre tall watchtower has been built in Serra das Talhadas, Portugal as part of a project comprising several structures dedicated to ecotourism in the area. 

The tower is made from a lightweight steel structure that is divided into platforms at various heights. The designer, Álvaro Siza, wanted to honour an old watchtower made of tubular steel that stood at the same spot.   

As did the previous tower, the new structure forms part of the nature trail inside the Geopark Naturtejo. The area is recognised by UNESCO as a site of international geological significance. These geological sites, according to UNESCO, express governmental recognition of the importance of managing outstanding geological sites and landscapes in a holistic manner that favours protection, education and sustainable development.  

In addition to the Watchtower, the Serra was equipped with a ramp that was constructed to help practice sports such as paragliding and the largest via ferrata in Portugal. The road connects Miradouro dos Carregais to the Siza Vieira Tower over a distance of 1,600 metres. The tower also presents the latest technology with the roof featuring photovoltaic panels to generate electricity. 

According to the Proença-a-Nova municipality website, the renovation of Serra das Talhadas cost €625,000, of which 250 thousand were provided by Portugal’s national tourism agency through the Programa Valorizar, which aims to promote the improvement of tourist destinations. 

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