Setubal is a small Portuguese municipality which sits at the north of the Rio Sado. This river is home to a large family of dolphins, and it attracts many tourists from neighboring European countries. Visitors in love with the history of Europe can enjoy ruins of the ancient Roman fishing village Cetobriga. This lies half submerged off the city’s peninsular coast. The town of Setubal is also Portugal’s third largest trading port.

Today, Setubal does not rely so much on its fishing industry as it does on tourism. Visitors from other countries flock the town of Setubal to experience traces of the country’s medieval past. Anyone visiting Setubal should walk on foot because Setubal’s streets are lined with beautiful gardens and attractive shops.

Among the historical ruins which should not be missed in Setubal is the 16th century cathedral Santa Maria de Graca. The church still retains the original tiles it bore since the 18th century. The Igreja de Jesus, on the other hand, is a magnificent Gothic Church with pink Arrabida stone columns and Manueline architecture. This church was designed by the architect Diogo Boitac in 1494.

Setubal is also home to a lot of artists and writers. The Museu de Setubal which sits at the Mosterio de Jesus pays homage to a number of religious items and paintings. Part of this collection is a tribute to the Portuguese poet Bocage.

Another interesting museum to visit is the Museo de Arguelogia e Etnografia. This museum is home to a collection of archeological items from the Bronze Age. It also showcases remnants of Portugal’s old cork industry.

Setubal is also nests one of Portugal’s ancient fortresses. The Castelo de San Felipe used to protect Setubal from invaders. Now, it has been restructured to form an attractive Pousada which welcome tourists.