Setúbal

Setúbal is a city and a municipality in Portugal, located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) southeast of Lisbon. It is the capital of the Setúbal District and a major port city situated on the northern bank of the Sado River estuary. The city's economy has historically been linked to fishing and shipbuilding, with a significant presence of the fish processing industry. More recently, tourism has become an increasingly important sector.

The region surrounding Setúbal is known for its natural beauty, including the Arrábida Natural Park, which offers stunning coastal landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. The Sado estuary is also a habitat for a resident population of bottlenose dolphins, making boat trips to observe them a popular tourist activity. Setúbal itself boasts a historic center with notable landmarks such as the Convento de Jesus, a former convent that houses a museum, and the Mercado do Livramento, a traditional market celebrated for its azulejo tile panels depicting local life and products.

Historically, Setúbal was an important Phoenician and Roman settlement. It experienced significant development during the Age of Discovery. The city has a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Setúbal is well-connected by road and rail, facilitating easy access for visitors and residents alike. The local cuisine is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly grilled sardines and the regional sweet wine, Moscatel de Setúbal.