This forgotten village has now been news, when it appeared on the market with a price that impresses: 9 million euros. It is the Herdade do Pereiro, a space that was once a true example of self-sufficiency and economic dynamism, but today it is abandoned.
Situated by the Spain border, this village in Alentejo has been uninhabited since the 1990s, but has known days of intense activity and great vitality. What remains today is a ghost village, with vacant houses and signs of abandonment, but with a rich story that continues to arouse curiosity.
Thousand workers and a complete community
At its height, Herdade even welcomed about a thousand workers. It was a complete community, with housing, school, day care, chapel, canteen, spa and even an aviation field. The whole structure was designed to function independently, serving those who lived there and worked there.
Stories of World War II in the Alentejo
In addition to the agricultural component, Herdade do Pereiro also played a relevant role in the historical context of the region. During World War II, its aviation track was used as a strategic point for smuggling between Portugal and Spain.
First Casino License in Portugal
The Herdade do Pereiro may well be nicknamed “Las Vegas do Alentejo” due to its unique and unusual past for a village in the interior of the country. According to him, it was surprisingly the first location in Portugal to receive a gambling and casino license, which gave him an air of sophistication and mystery. Herdade had a very large games room that attracted outsiders, looking for fun and entertainment.
A visionary entrepreneur ahead of the project
The property was acquired in 1931 by João Nunes Sequeira, one of the most influential entrepreneurs in Alentejo at the time. His first investment was a pepper factory, but quickly diversified the activity with olive oil, wineries, workshops and mills.
Housing, services and leisure at the disposal of workers
Economic development brought with it the need to create living conditions for workers and their families. Therefore, social and leisure infrastructures were built, which helped keep the population united and motivated.
Centenary spas famed the locality
One of the area’s biggest attractions was the fadagosa thermal complex, handed over to João Nunes Sequeira in 1942. With more than a century of history, thermal baths have been a reference for decades in the region.
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Natural beauty and great potential for exploring
The natural beauty that surrounds Herdade remains one of its greatest assets. Despite the abandonment, the potential of the space for tourist, agricultural or heritage projects remains high.
Extensive territory with recoverable infrastructures
Today, the housing area occupies about 20,000 square meters and is inserted on a property with 80 hectares, where olive and cork oak predominate. Even over the years, the base structure remains visible and recoverable.
Depopulation dictated the end of a unique model
With the decline of activity and the progressive exit of the inhabitants, the village entered a process of marked degradation. However, those who visit the place realize that there is still margin to revitalize this piece of history.
Sale represents challenge and opportunity
Although there is no information on interested in buying, the sale of Herdade do Pereiro opens a new possibility to bring to life and return the lost dignity.
Rehabilitate with respect for local history
Recovering this village will not be easy, but its symbolic and historical value can be a starting point for a new chapter. It is an opportunity to rewrite the destination of a place that was an example of progress and innovation.
The future of Herdade do Pereiro is now in the hands of those who want to dream of a new life for this place. It remains to be seen if there will be someone willing to accept the challenge.
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