Achada do Gamo

Since the beginning of modern mining activities in the Sao Domingos Mine, Achada do Gamo was a centre for metalworking activities. During the 19th century working with raw minerals like copper pyrites required a special treatment process, in this case, sintering or roasting the materials in an oven.

During the 20th century, between the 1930s and 1940s, a new approach was taken in industrial exploration. The extraction of sulphur began from the already highly valued copper pyrite through the use of ovens in two manufacturing facilities installed in the Achada do Gamo. The impact of these activities on the environment is obvious to those who visit the place. It has transformed this into an otherworldly landscape.

[Guide of the Portuguese Geological and Mines Sites] www.roteirodeminas.pt