Written by bri on 05 Feb, 2001
The people of Monsanto seem unaware of the beauty and uniqueness of their surroundings. They go about their business, patient with but bemused by us tourists. Their simple and very appealing life tends to revolve around their livestock and the produce they grow. It…Read More
The people of Monsanto seem unaware of the beauty and uniqueness of their surroundings. They go about their business, patient with but bemused by us tourists. Their simple and very appealing life tends to revolve around their livestock and the produce they grow. It was amazing to me how the animals and their needs are integrated right into the fabric of the town. Maybe it's because I grew up in and come from a large metropolitan area (Chicago) but the sight of little stone pig houses and donkey stalls nestled between and among regular homes was funny to me. Chickens coops are plunked right by the front doors. Belled goats wander the paths that lead you to the castle. Friendly dogs wander freely, and become your eager guides; and there is a lazy, disinterested cat in practically every doorway. You turn a corner, and find a man milking a goat! The animals were definitely part of the magic of Monsanto.Close
Written by bri on 03 Feb, 2001
A picturesque and easy climb gets you to the castle ruins. Being mid-March and early in the morning, it was a little foggy and cloudy on our way up, but the sun was just beginning to break through when we reached the top. …Read More
A picturesque and easy climb gets you to the castle ruins. Being mid-March and early in the morning, it was a little foggy and cloudy on our way up, but the sun was just beginning to break through when we reached the top. Close
Written by bri on 04 Feb, 2001
One of the more unique items that can be purchased are the small, faceless wooden dolls that are handmade by the elderly women of Monsanto. My wife bought one of the dolls as a gift for our daughter, and questioned the maker as to…Read More
One of the more unique items that can be purchased are the small, faceless wooden dolls that are handmade by the elderly women of Monsanto. My wife bought one of the dolls as a gift for our daughter, and questioned the maker as to why the doll had no face. With our rudimentary Portuguese and much hand signalling, we were made to understand that you can draw your own face on if you wish. I don't know if this is truly the tradition, or if the woman was merely trying to placate a curious customer and make a sale. Close