Sabugal Castle, Medieval castle in Sabugal, Portugal.
Sabugal Castle is a medieval fortress built with a five-sided outer wall reinforced by four corner towers that rise above the surrounding terrain. The central keep stands prominently above the walls, creating a distinctive profile visible from across the town.
The fortress was rebuilt in the 13th century under King Dinis of Portugal, who gave it the distinctive five-sided design. This royal intervention transformed the structure into the fortification that remains standing today.
The fortress shaped daily life for centuries, serving as both protection and symbol of royal power in the region. Today it stands as a landmark that locals and visitors recognize as the defining feature of their town.
The site is located on a hilltop near the Côa River and is easily reached from the town of Sabugal below. Visitors should be prepared for uneven terrain and some steep paths when exploring the towers and walls.
The pentagonal shape sets this fortress apart from other Portuguese castles and was a deliberate design choice made during its reconstruction. This unusual geometry allowed defenders to cover all angles more effectively, making it an architectural standout of its era.
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