Castle of Vidigueira

Castle of Vidigueira is a rectangular fortress with a square tower that has minimal decoration. The structure is built from granite and features cruciform slits in the walls, which are typical elements of medieval defensive buildings.

The castle changed hands several times: it belonged first to Master Tome, then to the Crown and later to the House of Braganza. In 1519 the king granted it to explorer Vasco da Gama.

The structure shows how defensive fortifications transformed into noble residences over time. This shift is visible in how the building mixes sturdy fortress elements with later decorative additions.

The grounds are open to visitors and located in the Baixo Alentejo region in southern Portugal. You can walk around the exterior walls and view the structure from different angles.

A preserved Manueline window remains from the original palace section. The coat of arms of the Counts of Vidigueira is still visible on the tower.

Location: Vidigueira

GPS coordinates: 38.21301,-7.80228

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:26