Portugal is home to some of Europe’s most remarkable megalithic monuments, yet many remain largely unknown outside specialist archaeological circles. Scattered across the countryside are ancient stone circles, dolmens, standing stones and sacred landscapes that predate many of the world’s most famous historical sites by thousands of years.

In this fascinating episode of Podcast Portugal, Justin West sits down with Scottish explorer, filmmaker and megalithic researcher David O’Connor, founder of Reppin Nature, to discuss what these ancient places may reveal about our ancestors and their relationship with the natural world. Through years of field research, filmmaking and immersive tours across Scotland, Portugal and beyond, David has developed a unique perspective on the role these sites played within the wider landscape.

Rather than viewing megalithic monuments solely as ceremonial or ritual locations, David explores the possibility that many were sophisticated landscape-based technologies, carefully positioned in relation to geological features, water systems, light patterns, acoustics and natural energies. His work examines how prehistoric communities may have understood their environment in ways that modern society has largely forgotten.

The conversation journeys through some of Portugal’s most significant megalithic regions and explores why ancient people invested extraordinary effort into constructing these monuments. What knowledge guided their placement? Why do so many sites share common characteristics across vast geographical distances? And what can these ancient structures teach us about living in greater harmony with the Earth?

David discusses the importance of experiencing these places firsthand rather than viewing them purely through textbooks or archaeological reports. Atmosphere, landscape, scale and human experience are central themes throughout his work. By immersing ourselves within these environments, he believes we gain insights that cannot always be captured through conventional academic analysis alone.

Justin and David also explore broader questions surrounding modern society’s relationship with nature. As technology increasingly dominates daily life, many people are searching for deeper connections to landscape, ancestry and place. Ancient monuments may offer clues not only about the past but also about how we might reconnect with the natural world today.

The discussion touches on archaeology, history, mythology, geology, consciousness, landscape interpretation and the enduring mystery surrounding some of humanity’s oldest surviving structures. While many questions remain unanswered, these mysteries continue to inspire researchers, explorers and curious travellers from around the world.

For anyone fascinated by ancient history, Portugal’s hidden heritage, archaeology, exploration or humanity’s connection to nature, this episode offers a thought-provoking journey into some of the most intriguing landscapes on Earth.

About David O’Connor

David O’Connor is a Scottish explorer, filmmaker and founder of Reppin Nature. Through field research, filmmaking and guided tours, he explores megalithic sites, ancient landscapes and humanity’s relationship with the natural world. His work focuses on experiential exploration and investigating how ancient people may have worked with stone, water, light, sound and landscape in ways that continue to intrigue researchers today. 

Megalithic Tours, Film & Research – Connect with David: Reppin´Nature