The largest astronomical observatory deep inside the Dark Sky® Reserve
Astronomical Observation
Discover the Monsaraz night sky and be amazed with the Universe!
Happening at OLA…
What is the Alqueva Lake Observatory?
The Lake Alqueva Observatory (OLA), is the largest astronomical observatory with a focus on science outreach located in Monsaraz in Alentejo. Situated deep within a light pollution protected area internationally certified as a Dark Sky® Reserve or “Starlight Tourism Destination”, which extends approximately 10.000 km2.
Visiting the Lake Alqueva Observatory in the middle of the Dark Sky® Reserve, for stargazing on a guided tour of the magnificent night sky of Monsaraz, allowing yourself to be enchanted by the universe is to enjoy a sky protected from light pollution, ideal for astronomical observations.
Learn basic concepts as we teach you how to find the polar star, navigate our sky and identify the constellations and observe star clusters, nebulae and distant galaxies through the telescope with the help of our observatory’s professional guides, specialized in astronomy and astrophysics.
Activities
