He’s back again with his shadow and this time his shadow has its own reflection. We’re also still in the Algarve but this time in Castro Marim. A tiny town, close to the Spanish border hence its three castles.

If you are wondering why this road is named after a date, you are in good company. I was wondering too as I had no recollection of what was written on the board or of MrB telling me about it. At first glance I thought it might refer to the great earthquake of 1755 which occurred on Sunday 26th January. However when I zoomed in I realised it celebrates Castro Marim’s civil and administrative history.

In 1836, the government attempted to reduce the number of Algarvian districts from 17 to 13, abolishing those of Alvor, Sagres, Aljezur and Castro Marim. The people and Câmara of Castro Marim protested so loudly and so persistently that the government backed down, well at least for a while. There was another attempt in 1867, and again in 1898. Each time the town resisted, at times violently. Eventually the government gave up and the town secured its administrative status on this date.

Talking of dates; some of us have been squaring daily since 1st November, but if you haven’t yet joined us don’t worry. Even with only a few days left you can square just the once and still be a member of this month’s Square gang. I hope you will join us in the shadows.

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