First settled by the Phoenicians and later transformed by the Romans into a key port city (Salacia Urbs Imperatoria), Alcácer do Sal grew as a vital river port. Its name and Salatia’s legacy, the Roman goddess of the sea, reflect centuries of life tied to water, trade, and salt here.
Along the riverfront and winding streets near Hotel Salatia, today’s paths follow those once used by Roman merchants, Moorish traders, and medieval knights. To the west, the ancient castle, now an archaeological museum and hotel, offers sweeping views over the Sado and the rooftops below.
For generations, the riverfront below Hotel Salatia has been a meeting place for Alcacerenses. Once called the “Garden of the Shoe-Shiners” and home to shaded benches and lively comings and goings, it continues to evolve and is the perfect shared space to experience local daily life.
The hotel itself served for many years as a set of apartments and private homes, before being converted into a hotel over 50 years ago. It was operated by the same family until Capstone Ventures acquired it from the family owner and operators upon their retirement in 2025.
