Castle of Lousã

Castelo da Lousã is a medieval fortress that rises on the right bank of the Arouce River and features a keep tower with cubic turrets and walls made of schist stone. The structure combines defensive elements with a compact layout suited to the terrain.

The fortress was built in the second half of the 11th century and served as a defensive structure to protect access routes to Coimbra. It played an important role in regional military strategy during the consolidation of the Portuguese kingdom.

The fortress displays medieval features of Portuguese military design, with details like light-colored sandstone decoration around the keep door. These building choices reflect the construction traditions that developed in this region during the early kingdom period.

The site is accessible by pathways and offers viewpoints over the surroundings and river valley. It is helpful to wear comfortable shoes since the path to the fortress climbs upward and the schist stone structure can be uneven underfoot.

Early Portuguese royalty used this location as a royal residence during the first decades of the kingdom's founding. This connection to the highest circles of power during the establishment period distinguished the fortress from many other regional fortifications.

Location: Lousã e Vilarinho

Operator: Câmara Municipal da Lousã, auto de cessão de 10 de Agosto de 1957

Opening Hours: Saturday,Sunday 10:00-13:00,14:00-17:00; Holidays 10:00-13:00,14:00-17:00

Website: https://cm-lousa.pt/locais/castelo-de-arouce

GPS coordinates: 40.10046,-8.23555

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:49