The owners of almost all houses of Casal de São Simão formed “Refúgios de Pedra” (Stone Refuges) Association on the 4th January of 2006.

The main purpose is the promotion, recovery and preservation of the environmental and cultural heritage not only of the village but also of its neighbourhood.

It has actively promoted the concept of the “Aldeias de Xisto” (Schist Villages) escorting around journalists and touristic promoters. It has been present at the annual fair at Figueiró dos Vinhos with a stand, where, through text and images, everyone was told about Casal de São Simão.

It also has played (and still plays) an important role as being the messenger of all of the inhabitants at official instances such as the Municipality or Tourism Office.

This way, the Association, alone with their associates or with the support of the Municipality of Figueiró dos Vinhos, have already succeeded to implement some improvements such as:

• Pedestrian path between the villages of Ferrarias de São João and Casal de São Simão.
• Cleaning the woods around the village, to prevent the fires in summer.

The Association is available for any further inquiries and will appreciate your opinion and suggestions. Please contact us.