Castle of Santa Maria da Feira, Medieval castle in Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal
Castle of Santa Maria da Feira is a fortress with an irregular oval shape built with multiple defensive structures from different periods. The grounds include an outer wall with a barbican, a surrounding moat, a rectangular prison tower, and a notably designed hexagonal chapel set within the inner defenses.
The fortress began in the 9th century under King Alfonso III of León, incorporating an existing military fortification into the newly established region of Tierra de Santa Maria. Over time, the site transformed from a pre-Christian temple into a strategic military stronghold.
The chapel within the walls reflects religious devotion and became an important pilgrimage destination for people across the region over the centuries. Visitors can still see how this sacred space was woven into the fortress design.
Access to the castle is on foot and the paths within the grounds are reasonably walkable, though some areas have uneven surfaces. Wear comfortable shoes and plan time to move through the different levels and towers, especially if you want to reach the upper viewpoints.
The fortress served as the backdrop for major regional fairs starting from 1117, which gave the town its name. This link between military structure and market life shaped the town's identity and continues to be part of its story today.
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