Seixal

Area: 29.50 km²

Population: 656 inhabitants (2011 Census)

Population density: 24,3 inhabitants /km²

Distance from the centre: 8,8 km



History

The parish of Seixal has its etymological origins in the word Seixo ou Seiço, a small willow tree of the Salix genera commonly found in streams around the Island.

The lumber from this tree is excellent for making casks used for wine, the main production in this parish.

The spelling of the parish underwent many changes having been spelt in a variety of manners such as Ceixal, Seissal, Ceisal and Seiçal.

Seixal once belonged to the parish of Porto Moniz. However, there is no concrete information as to the identity of the person to whom the land was assigned to.

According to oral tradition, the first settlers resided in Ribeira da Laje on the border of the parish near a place called Mó (grindstone) where the residents cultivated grains.

The mains villages are Portada, Penedo, Serra de Água, Feiteiras, Cova Farrobo, Ribeira da Laje, Fajã da Parreira, e Ribeira Funda.



Heraldry

Silver shield with a green willow tree (Salix canariensis) set over black pebbles.

Three silver towers crown the top and a white banner with "Seixal" in black at the bottom.









Economic Activities

Agriculture, viticulture, commerce, hospitality and construction, tourism and fruit, Crafts (tapestry, embroidery and cobbler).



Festivities

Santo Antão (17th January)

Santíssimo Sacramento (penultimate Sunday of August)



Heritage and Points of Interest

Parish Church of Santo Antão

Chão da Ribeira (valley in the Laurissilva forest)

Fanal (picnic area)

Natural swimming pools

Seixal fishing pier

Véu da Noiva waterfall and viewpoint

Road between Seixal and São Vicente



Collectives

Clube Naval do Seixal



Contacts

Junta de Freguesia do Seixal
Sítio das Feiteiras
9270-124 Seixal
+351 291 854 320
+351 291 854 320