Castle of Belmonte, Medieval fortress in Belmonte e Colmeal da Torre, Portugal
The Castle of Belmonte sits on a hilltop and features granite walls arranged in an irregular oval shape with defensive towers. The structure shows typical features of a medieval fortress with a central keep and surrounding protective walls.
The settlement received a royal charter from King Sancho I in 1199, marking the start of fortress construction in the late 12th century. The stronghold was later expanded and reinforced over the following decades to protect the region.
The castle was the home of the Cabral family, whose members became known as sailors and explorers in far-off lands. Visitors can walk through the stone rooms where this noble family once lived and made their plans.
Visitors can explore the site on foot and walk along the walls to see all areas. It is wise to wear comfortable shoes because the terrain is uneven and some paths are steep.
Excavations between 1992 and 1993 uncovered Roman objects inside the main tower, showing that people lived here during ancient times. These findings reveal that the hilltop was occupied long before the medieval fortress was built.
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