The sculptures of Barão de São João

The village of Barão de São João is a small sleepy village- but it just so happens to be full of surprises! On a recent visit, we stumbled upon the captivating works of Deodato Inácio Santos, a local sculptor whose art left us amazed — not just by its quirky nature, but by its sheer abundance.

Santos was born in nearby Lagos in 1939, and has created a world that feels like stepping into a living art gallery. As we walked along the quiet road leading out of the village, we expected to find a handful of his figurative wooden sculptures.

Instead, we found ourselves surrounded by an entire “sculpture farm.” Each turn of the path revealed more life-sized creations, each more expressive and intriguing than the last.

From playful human figures frozen mid-action to solemn faces carved into stone, Santos’ art is superb. His skill in woodworking, honed under master craftsman Américo Guerreiro dos Santos, shines through in the intricate details of his wooden figures, while his clay modeling expertise adds a touch of raw emotion to his stone carvings.

Santos’ creations are a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re an art lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a unique experience, they will leave you enchanted. The scale of Santos’ work and the way it harmonizes with its surroundings is a testament to his genius and a reminder of the beauty that can be found in unexpected places.

So, if you’re in the Algarve, don’t miss the chance to visit. Wander through this extraordinary open-air gallery, let the sculptures surprise you at every turn. Be prepared to be wowed—you might just discover more than you ever expected!