Il Passeio dos Poetas

The Passeio dos Poetas is a route to take along Santa Cruz Beach in Torres Vedras. It is located south of Santa Cruz Beach and the natural viewpoint approaches the immense golden beach that contrasts with the rocky cliffs.Antero de Quental came here often, as did Kazuo Dan, a famous Japanese poet and writer who fell in love with Santa Cruz and lived here for almost a year. Another writer and poet who fell in love with Santa Cruz beach was João de Barros.These are some of the most notable men of letters who had a strong connection with this beach and who, in some cases, expressed this passion through poetry.The Passeio dos Poetas passes through some of the places that marked the authors, especially viewpoints and the stairs leading to the beach. Santa Cruz's relationship with writers can be seen and felt along the Passeio dos Poetas.The municipality of Torres Vedras has also highlighted this relationship with the construction of statues and monuments. This is the case of Antero de Quental who is sitting in front of a chapel looking at the sea. You can see that he is relaxed, with his legs crossed, alone and pensive.Not far away is the monument dedicated to Kazuo Dan. On a stone, facing the Atlantic, is written a poem dedicated to Santa Cruz. It is written in Portuguese and Japanese.In João de Barros Square, with a wide view of the northern coast, is another larger monument. It is dedicated to João de Barros.The Passeio dos Poetas has 26 points of interest and the best way to start is from the Azenha of Santa Cruz. It was built in the 15th century, has been restored and is where an Interpretive Center operates. It is classified as an Asset of Public Interest.Here you can find other routes in Santa Cruz, the agenda of cultural and sports events. Here you can find information about Kazuo Dan: A Japanese in Santa Cruz.Passeio dos Poetas in Santa Cruz is part of Antena1's weekly program, Vou Ali e Já Venho, and you can listen to it here.