Lourosa de Campos Tower

Category: Military Architecture > Tower

District: Aveiro > Arouca > Lourosa de Campos > Cantinho Torre dos Mouros

Location

The Tower of Lourosa de Campos is located in a quiet rural area, in the village of Lourosa de Campos, integrated into the area known as "Cantinho Torre dos Mouros". Although isolated, the tower is surrounded by old granite houses, which once were part of the historic Quinta da Torre Estate. This setting provides a glimpse of the region's traditional architecture, nestled within the natural landscape of the municipality of Arouca.

Gothic Architecture and Historical Value

With an imposing quadrangular plan, the Tower of Lourosa de Campos is a remarkable example of Gothic seigneurial residential architecture. Built in granite, its construction is attributed to the 14th century, with a Gothic inscription on one of its stones indicating the year 1354. Throughout its three floors, striking architectural elements are distinguishable, such as the geminated window with trefoil arches on the western facade and an ogival arch door on the eastern facade, which would have been its main entrance. A projecting balcony, supported by stone corbels, adds a defensive touch to its aesthetics, revealing its original function as a fortified noble house.

The Legacy of the Moorish Legend

Locally known as "Torre dos Mouros" (Tower of the Moors), this building is deeply linked to the community's memory and stories. The popular name refers to an ancient legend that unfolds on the site, making the tower not only a historical monument but also a stage for oral narratives transmitted over time. This legendary dimension gives the site a particular charm, inviting the imagination to travel through distant eras and tales of old.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt