Inhabited since prehistoric times, the site of Conímbriga was occupied by Roman troops in 139 BC, becoming the prosperous capital of the province of Lusitania. In the following century, during the reign of Emperor Augustus, the city expanded urbanistically, with the construction of essential structures for daily life in a Roman city, such as the forum, the amphitheater, and the baths. Later, a three-nave basilica was built in the center of the town.
However, the domestic architecture of Conímbriga, which developed and was renewed mainly between the late 1st century and the early 3rd century, is notable for the construction of insulae and luxurious domus. The charm of Conímbriga lies precisely in these houses, which preserve in stone the memories of past splendor.
Explore the House of Fountains and delight in the beautiful central garden, which retains the original hydraulic structure with over five hundred fountains, surrounded by a magnificent set of figurative mosaics depicting hunting scenes, mythological passages, the seasons, monsters, birds, and marine animals. Visit the grand houses such as the House of Cantaber, the largest in the city, the House of the Swastika Cross with its geometric mosaics, the House of the Trident and Sword, or the House of Skeletons, and then move among the residential buildings organized around them. Climb the stands and tunnels of the amphitheater, explore the three baths scattered throughout the city, and as you walk on the mosaics of the forum, imagine yourself in the political center of this thriving city of ancient times.
Afterward, visit the Museum, where, through objects found over many years of excavations, the various spaces evoke the daily life of the ancient Roman city, the practice of religion, the architecture of noble houses and their decoration, and life in the forum.
The Roman city of Conímbriga can be reached in about 55 minutes by car from Quinta da Palmeira – Country House Retreat & Spa.