O Fojo is a pioneering permaculture project in central Portugal, founded in 2009, now evolving into an Integral Education Center offering courses, bioconstruction events and community-living experiences. It combines Earth Care, People Care and Fair Share principles to teach regenerative practices in agriculture, natural building and holistic living.
O Fojo | Integral Education Center is one of the earliest practical permaculture projects in Portugal, started in 2008 on abandoned land in Fojo, Almoster, in the district of Leiria. Since then it has hosted 23 donation-based Permaculture Experiences, three Permaculture Introductory Courses, three Mãos na Terra bioconstruction events, internships and Agriculture and Community Living Programs, engaging more than 800 participants over the years.
The project is currently being reorganized as an intentional community supporting the development of a Living and Learning Center focused on integral regenerative leadership education. Its work spans six interconnected areas: permaculture and natural agriculture, natural and bio-climatic building, alternative technologies, personal and community development, healing practices, and retreat and event hosting. Planned facilities include a Healing Center offering yoga, biodanza, massage, reiki and meditation, and a Retreat Center with lodging, teaching spaces, a sauna and a natural swimming pool.
Guided by the permaculture ethics of Earth Care, People Care and Fair Share, O Fojo seeks to disseminate tools and experiences for conscious social, ecological and economic transformation. After a pause between 2013 and 2015 following personal changes for its founders, the project was relaunched in August 2015 under the direction of co-founder Maurício Umann, who continues to run courses, workshops and events on-site and internationally. O Fojo remains an active hub for volunteers, students and visitors interested in permaculture, bioconstruction and community living in Portugal.
Our Goal
O Fojo aims to build an Integral Education Center and intentional community in central Portugal that disseminates permaculture, natural building and regenerative living practices, supporting personal and collective transformation toward an ecologically sound and economically viable way of life.
Our Wishes
The project welcomes volunteers, interns, participants and supporters who can contribute time, skills, resources or funding to help implement the Integral Education Center and its ongoing courses and events.
