Castle of Carrazeda

Castle of Carrazeda sits on an elevated plateau and features granite walls that stand several meters high in places. The site has an oval layout with towers and a gate that reflect typical medieval defensive design.

After the fall of the Moorish fortress in the late 11th century, Christian forces built fortifications to protect settlements along the Douro River. The site received multiple charters over the centuries, showing its continued importance to the region.

The site served as an administrative center for surrounding communities starting in the 12th century. The ruins reflect the importance this fortress held for organizing and developing the region.

The site is reachable by local road and can be explored on paths around the ruins. Visitors should wear proper footwear and be aware that some remains may be unstable.

Excavations in the 1990s uncovered primitive cisterns that show how residents stored water in this elevated location. These underground structures reveal the practical ingenuity of medieval fortress builders.

Location: Lavandeira, Beira Grande e Selores

Made from material: mortar, granite, cement, wood, iron

GPS coordinates: 41.20242,-7.30499

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:27