Castle of Ouguela, Medieval fortress in Campo Maior, Portugal
Castle of Ouguela is a medieval fortress in Campo Maior that rises from an elevated position overlooking the Abrilongo stream. The structure comprises seven quadrangular towers and defensive walls, with views extending across Portuguese terrain toward the Spanish castle of Albuquerque across the border.
The site began as a pre-Roman settlement later called Budua in Roman times. Its incorporation into Portuguese territory was formalized through the Treaty of Alcanices in 1297, securing this frontier zone.
The fortress sits at a border crossing point, and visitors can see how its design reflects centuries of protecting this contested territory between two kingdoms.
The site is reachable from Campo Maior, and visitors should wear sturdy shoes since the elevated position involves uneven terrain. Early morning offers the best views, when sunlight illuminates the Portuguese and Spanish landscapes clearly.
Inside the fortress sits a large quadrangular water cistern that reveals how critical water supply was during long sieges. This underground structure stands as one of the best-preserved examples of medieval engineering at the site.
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