Arco de Albandeira

The Arco de Albandeira (or "Portal of the Cross") is a majestic historic arch from the 17th century located in the small fishing town of Porches, Portugal. It was built in the 1600s to mark the entrance of the old part of the village and was built in the Mannerist style with soaring vaults and columns. The large sculptured wooden cross that sat atop the arch has since been dismounted due to its age. Visitors today can appreciate its fine stonework and symmetrical structure, earning it the title of a National Monument, along with the adjacent 18th century Church of the Divine Savior. A fun way to experience this site is to take a horse-drawn cart ride through the village and take in the view of the arch which stands tall over the main road.