Our story
The history of the Palha family dates back to the 12th century, but one of the most notable ancestors was Pereira Palha Almeida, who in 1385 participated in the group of Portuguese warriors who defeated the Castilians in Aljubarrota, guaranteeing Portugal's independence. In 1853, António José Pereira Palha married Laura Rodriguez Blanco, a young Spanish woman from Málaga, marking a new chapter in the lineage.
On January 14, 1854, the couple's only son, José Pereira Palha Blanco, was born, who would become the most renowned in the family. Endowed with above-average intelligence and a remarkable capacity for work, as well as a clear vision of matters and living beings, José demonstrated a great curiosity for all topics related to agriculture. Originally from Alentejo, the Palhas settled in Ribatejo, more specifically in the Vila Franca de Xira area, acquiring several properties on the banks of the Tagus, including Monte de Santo Isidro in 1874.
José Pereira Palha Blanco was a revolutionary in the field of agriculture, embracing new ideas without being tied to tradition. He was one of the first in Portugal to acquire tractors, demonstrating a vision of the future that put him ahead of his time.
As a large farmer in Ribatejo and Alentejo, José Pereira Palha Blanco received King D. Carlos de Bragança at his home during a visit to Vila Franca de Xira. The toast of King D. Carlos became famous: “I, Carlos de Bragança, King of Portugal and Alentejo Farmer, toast to the health of the King of Portuguese Farmers”.
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Since then, for seven generations, the family has preserved its heritage and agricultural activity, investing in modern and sustainable methods to ensure that this legacy is passed on to future generations.
