Up until the 1960’s the majority of the population within Portugal was rural,and within the Central region agriculture was, and still is, by far the most important and significant occupation and provider to the local economy. Through the 1960’s and up until the 1990’s there has been a decline in rural populations as many Portuguese moved to more industrialised towns or cities, with many emigrating to Northern Europe. This exodus from rural areas saw a number of the traditional properties being left untended, and with the Portuguese increased demand for new built properties, many expats are now looking at renovation projects within the region.
Within Portugal, as in all regions of the world, property has, up until recent times been constructed from materials that were sourced locally. With that in mind much of the “traditional” property within central Portugal has been constructed using locally sourced limestone and oak or eucalyptus. Most would have traditionally sourced their energy resources from the vast swathes of forests (eucalyptus, cork oak and pine) with many old properties having large areas for open fires within the main living area.
Due to the smallholding lifestyle of many of the previous occupants, and temperate all year round climate, it is very common to find an abundance of fruit trees within many properties. The most abundant is of course Olive, which is still producing some of the best quality oil in Europe. Other fruit trees common to the area are Orange, Lemon, Cherry, Walnut, Figs, Loquat (Nęspera) and a plethora of wild herbs and berries. The rich fertile soils of the region also make it possible, for those with the time, energy and space to lead an almost self-sufficient lifestyle.
Central Portugal also hosts some of the most diverse and beautiful flora and fauna, having a mixture of European and North African types. Wild animals are still in abundance with wild pig, goat and deer still being found. Many rare bird species are also to be found in the region, especially within the Natural Park areas such as the Serra da Estrela. The Natural park, which has the highest mountain peaks in Portugal also hosts the start of the Mondego and Zezere rivers, which host examples of rare flora such as Narcissus asturiensis and Lycopodium clavatum.
Central Portugal is not only in possession of beautiful landscapes, wildlife and flora, it also has some of warmest and most welcoming people anywhere. If buying a property in this region expect a trail of locals bearing gifts to your front door, even with the language barrier you will be made to feel at home