Castle of Beja, Medieval castle in Beja, Portugal
The Castle of Beja is a medieval fortress set on a hilltop with a pentagonal layout and six defensive towers. The central keep tower rises approximately 24 meters and forms the dominant feature of the structure.
King Dinis initiated construction of the keep tower in 1310 on the site of earlier Roman foundations. This fortress was part of a broader defensive network established to protect the kingdom.
The castle displays features from different periods, including Manueline-style windows and medieval ogival doors with detailed stone carvings. These overlapping styles reflect how the building was adapted and used across centuries.
The fortress is open daily, with varying hours depending on the season. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for stairs, as reaching the upper levels requires climbing a substantial interior staircase.
The interior of the keep tower is connected by a tight spiral staircase with about 180 steps that leads to platforms with expansive views. From the top, you can see across the flat Alentejo landscape and the surrounding countryside.
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