Sintra Council Pursues National Heritage Status for Historic Colares Winemaking
The Sintra Municipal Council, in collaboration with the Adega Regional de Colares, has announced a colloquium on October 17 to discuss the candidacy of the region's traditional viticulture for inclusion on the National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. The event, titled “Património Cultural Imaterial em Territórios de Vinho,” will take place at the Colares Regional Winery starting at 9:00 AM and is part of the official commemorations of the UNESCO-proclaimed International Day for Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The primary objective of the meeting is to formalize and promote the recognition of the unique winemaking practices of Colares, particularly the cultivation of native grape varieties in sandy soil ('chão de areia'). This method has been used for centuries and is considered a vital part of Portugal's agricultural and cultural identity. The council will present the extensive work already completed for the candidacy, which aims to safeguard these traditions for future generations.
The colloquium will feature a panel of specialists, academics, and representatives from governmental and cultural bodies. Key topics for debate include the existing legal frameworks for safeguarding heritage in Portugal, the role of UNESCO in protecting cultural landscapes, and lessons learned from similar inventory processes. Case studies, such as the protected vineyard landscape of Pico Island and the dry stone constructions in Tondela, will be presented to provide context and guidance for the Colares application.
A significant portion of the discussion will focus on the Rota dos Vinhos Históricos da Região de Lisboa, a strategic initiative that connects the historic wine-producing territories of Bucelas, Carcavelos, and Colares. Paulo Rocha, a historian specializing in Portuguese agriculture, noted, “Securing this heritage status for Colares would be a cornerstone for the entire Lisbon Historic Wine Route, elevating its international profile and ensuring its preservation against development pressures.”
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The day's program is structured to be comprehensive, including several round-table discussions where attendees can engage with the experts. Following the formal sessions, participants will be taken on an interpretive visit to an emblematic vineyard in Fontanelas, offering a firsthand look at the 'chão de areia' cultivation method. The event will conclude with a tasting of Colares wines, allowing attendees to experience the product of the heritage they are discussing.
A spokesperson for the Sintra Council stated, “This candidacy is a testament to our commitment to preserving the unique identity of our municipality. We believe that the recognition of Colares viticulture as national heritage will bring positive impacts, not only culturally but also for the local economy and sustainable tourism.” The council emphasizes that the process has involved close collaboration with local producers and the community to ensure the application reflects the living heritage of the region.
The initiative has been met with strong support from local agricultural associations and cultural preservation groups. The Adega Regional de Colares, a cooperative founded in 1931, views the heritage status as a crucial step in ensuring the viability of this small but historically significant appellation. The recognition would provide a framework for protecting the designated agricultural areas from being converted to other uses.
Participation in the colloquium is open to the public and free of charge, though prior registration through an online form is required due to limited capacity. The event represents a key milestone in a multi-year effort to achieve formal protection for one of Portugal's most distinctive wine traditions. The outcome of the discussions on October 17 is expected to shape the final submission to the national authorities responsible for cultural heritage. Monitor new development opportunities at realestate-lisbon.com.