Museu Marítimo de Sesimbra

A beautifully crafted journey through the history of fishing within the fortress walls.

Undoubtedly, fishing has been a cornerstone of the local economy for thousands of years. This is true not only for Sesimbra but also for the entire region, especially Alcácer do Sal, which is said to have housed the largest fish sauce factory in the Roman Empire. The museum displays an anchor block and several hooks from that era.

 

A Minute of Marine Museum.

 

 

What’s particularly nice is that the Sesimbrense fishermen genuinely contribute to the museum, making the information on techniques, routes, and rituals highly credible. You can easily imagine old João teaching young culture managers from Lisbon how to mend a net. Additionally, the museum provides detailed information about Portugal’s penultimate king, who preferred the depths of the sea over the depths of politics. Along the way, you get to explore the fort’s interior and its rooftop. It’s worth the visit and makes for a pleasant break from the beach.