In the Middle Ages, this windblown cape at the extreme southwest of Europe was
believed to be the end of the world. The Romans called it the Promontorium Sacrum  (Sacred Promontory), and today, with its 60-m
(200-ft) cliffs fronting the Atlantic, it still presents a most awe-inspiring
aspect. The ocean waves have created long, sandy beaches and carved deep caves
into the cliffs.

Since the 15th century, Cabo de São Vicente has been an important reference point
for shipping, and its present lighthouse has a 95-km (60-mile) range, said to be
the most powerful in Europe. For even longer it has had religious associations,
and its name arises from the legend that the body of St Vincent was washed
ashore here in the 4th century. Prince Henry the Navigator was also reputed to
have lived here, but, if so, all traces of his Vila do Infante have disappeared.
A number of important naval battles have taken place off the Cape, including the
defeat of a Spanish fleet in 1797 by the British admirals Jervis and Nelson.

Since 1988 the coast from Sines in the north to Burgau in the east has been made
a nature reserve, providing important nesting grounds for Bonelli’s eagle,
kestrel, white stork, heron and numerous other bird species. There is also a
colony of sea otters.