Shemesh Portugal

We are Bar and Yishai, two years ago we moved to Portugal with an inner request for a new station in life, to get closer to nature, to make art and be touched by new energy.


We settled in Alentejo West (two hours south from Lisbon, coast side), an area that in the last ten years unites an international alternative community from all over the world.


We started our journey by volunteering in existing projects, we studied the land and were touched by the activities and human encounters.

We adapted to the country, learned the Portuguese language and were exposed to the ancient and rich Portuguese culture.


We were interested in uniting the learning and human connections we have created into a special center in nature, which will unite our love for art, language and Spiritual studies, dance, culture, community events and fresh and nutritious food based on local organic sustainability.


our vision-

Establishing a meeting place through art and therapy, language and spiritual studies, dance and Social Cultural events.


A meeting place for locals and passers-by.


A place that will invite people from around the world to connect together and create art and culture as a significant part of their stay or visit in Portugal.


The creation of ‘Shemesh’ began on a day of hiking in nature. We noticed an abandoned school among ancient cork oak trees a few minutes' walk from a flowing stream and magical natural pools.


We approached the regional council with the aim of turning the abandoned school into a center of art, culture and spirit.

After months of bureaucracy and faith, we received the approval for the project.


The building divided into three spaces

Gather Space and & Organic Shop from local crops and produce.

Ceramic Studio which also be used for art workshops and art therapy.

Hosting space for spiritual culture, Portuguese language studies and dance studio.


We are happy and excited to invite you to be a part of our journey, support us and arrive at the right time to take part, participate in the events that will happen during your visit and even use the space and lead a workshop yourself.

LGBTQ+ Friendly.