O Fojo, founded in 2009, is one of the first permaculture projects in central Portugal. It is now growing into an Integral Education Center offering courses, bioconstruction events and experiences of community living. Following the principles of Earth Care, People Care and Fair Share, it teaches regenerative practices in agriculture, natural building and everyday living.
O Fojo is one of the earliest practical permaculture projects in Portugal. It 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 and three *Mãos na Terra* bioconstruction events, along with internships and Agriculture and Community Living Programmes. More than 800 people have taken part over the years.
The project paused between 2013 and 2015 after personal changes for its founders. In August 2015 it was relaunched under the direction of co-founder Maurício Umann, who still runs courses, workshops and events on site and internationally.
O Fojo is now being reorganised as an intentional community. The community is meant to support the development of a Living and Learning Centre focused on integral regenerative leadership education. Its work covers six connected areas:
- permaculture and natural agriculture
- natural and bioclimatic building
- alternative technologies
- personal and community development
- healing practices
- retreat and event hosting
The planned facilities include a Healing Centre offering yoga, biodanza, massage, reiki and meditation. A Retreat Centre is also planned, with lodging, teaching spaces, a sauna and a natural swimming pool.
The work follows the three permaculture ethics: Earth Care, People Care and Fair Share. Through it, O Fojo wants to share tools and experiences for conscious social, ecological and economic transformation. It is still an active base for volunteers, students and visitors interested in permaculture, bioconstruction and community living in Portugal.
Our Goal
O Fojo wants to build an Integral Education Center and intentional community in central Portugal that spreads permaculture, natural building and regenerative living practices. The centre is meant to support personal and collective transformation towards a way of life that is ecologically sound and economically viable.
Our Wishes
O Fojo welcomes volunteers, interns, participants and supporters who can give time, skills, resources or funding. Their help would go towards setting up the Integral Education Center and keeping its courses and events running.
