Portugal's living landscapes

What if protecting a place could also help the people who call it home to thrive? 

Across Portugal, the Network of UNESCO Global Geoparks brings together territories recognised for their internationally important geological heritage and their rich natural and cultural landscapes.  

The network provides a platform for cooperation between geoparks and their public and private partners, helping them share knowledge, promote their territories and strengthen local identity. 

The geoparks go beyond protecting geological and natural heritage. Through environmental education, sustainable tourism and authentic, low-impact experiences, they invite visitors to discover the landscapes, traditions and resources that make each territory unique. 

The benefits reach beyond the visitor experience. By involving local communities, using local resources and encouraging collaboration, the geoparks help connect tourism with local economies and support the resilience of the places where they operate. 

The network shows how tourism can become part of caring for a place: protecting the landscapes and heritage that draw visitors while creating opportunities for the communities who live among them.