Those who believe in this origin site the medieval French marigold (Tagetes patula) flower of Tunes, a herbaceous plant similar to the carnation (with cut petals and yellow flower) and common in Tunes, Portugal as well as in Tunisia.

The settlement developed primarily around the junction of various rail-lines that connected Lisbon to the Algarve.

In the 19th century, the locality was dominated by a few agricultural settlers who dedicated themselves to wine production.

The economic changes in the country over time transformed the civil parish from one of agricultural and industry to a more tourist-oriented speciality.

The town is most noted for a train station which is an important national transport hub.