Castle of Serpa, Medieval fortress in Serpa, Portugal.
Castle of Serpa is a medieval fortress built with a quadrangular layout reinforced by turrets and defensive towers positioned along the perimeter walls. Three main gates distributed around the fortification provide access to the interior and were designed for defensive purposes.
King Sancho II conquered the castle from Moorish control in 1232, marking a pivotal moment in Portugal's Christian reconquest. It subsequently served as an important defensive position protecting the kingdom's southern frontier.
The castle houses an Archaeological Museum displaying objects from various periods of settlement. The collection spans from prehistoric times through the Roman era, offering visitors insight into the region's long human history.
The grounds are open to visitors daily, who can walk along preserved sections of the battlements for views across the Alentejo countryside. Different points along the walls offer varied perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
The fortress contains one of Portugal's oldest clock towers, the Torre do Relógio built in the 15th century. This tower represents a rare example of timekeeping integrated into a medieval castle structure.
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