The End of the World

 The Romans  called  Sagres “The End of the World” because the dragons and sea serpents were obviously just over the horizon.

Prince Henry the Navigator came here in the 15th century with his astronomers, navigators and ship builders to study the ocean and plan the conquests in the “Age of Discovery.” He is pointing to Africa, home of the Portuguese’ first colonies.

Around this time, they built  a fortress on a wind swept point to protect against invaders and pirates.  The sentinels used these huts to look for trouble.

They erected obelisks to claim the land they “discovered.” This one, in the fortress, has the Prince’s coat of arms.

The scenery here is dramatic cliffs and sheltered bays.

The hotel is located on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, with views of the Atlantic.  It is definitely in the running for best of the trip.

It has interesting art throughout.

It’s beautiful and relaxing, so I am staying here until I come home.