Santa Margarida da Serra is a civil parish (freguesia) in the municipality of Alenquer, located in the Lisbon District of Portugal. It is part of the Oeste subregion of the Centro Region.
Geography
- Area: approximately 12.16 km² (4.70 sq mi).
- The parish is situated in a hilly terrain on the eastern foothills of the Serra de Montejunto, which influences its climate and land use.
- It borders the parishes of Ribafria, São Julião da Barra, and Alenquer (São Joaquim).
Demographics
- According to the 2011 national census, Santa Margarida da Serra had a resident population of 1,349 inhabitants.
- Population density was around 111 inhabitants per km².
Administrative History
- The civil parish was created in the 19th century as part of the administrative reforms following the Liberal Revolution.
- It has retained its status through subsequent municipal re‑organizations, most recently confirmed by the 2013 administrative re‑division of Portuguese parishes.
Economy and Land Use
- The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, with a focus on olive groves, vineyards, and cereal cultivation.
- Small‑scale livestock farming and forestry activities are also present.
- Limited tourism occurs, centered on rural tourism and outdoor activities linked to the nearby Serra de Montejunto.
Cultural and Architectural Heritage
- The parish church of Santa Margarida, dedicated to Saint Margaret, dates to the early 18th century and features typical Baroque elements.
- Traditional stone houses and the layout of the village reflect historic rural architecture of the Lisbon interior.
Transportation
- Access to the parish is provided by local roads connecting to the EN114 highway, which links Alenquer to the coastal area of Ericeira.
- Public transport is limited to regional bus services.
Education and Services
- The parish maintains a primary school (Escola Básica da Santa Margarida da Serra) serving local children.
- Health services are provided by a local health centre, with more comprehensive facilities located in the municipal seat of Alenquer.
References
- Instituto Nacional de Estatística (INE), Census 2011.
- Diário da República, Law No. 11‑2013 (Administrative Re‑division of Parishes).
All information reflects the status of the parish as documented in official Portuguese sources up to 2024.
