Beja Castle

Category: Military Architecture > Castle

District: Beja > Beja > Beja > Santiago Maior e São João Baptista

Ancient History

, Prehistoric origins and importance in Roman times.

, Strategic role during the Muslim occupation.

Medieval Period

, Christian Reconquista by D. Afonso Henriques in 1159.

, Heroic defense by Gonçalo Mendes da Maia.

, Reconstruction and expansion of the walls by D. Afonso III and D. Dinis.

, Participation in the 1383-1385 Crisis and the Age of Discoveries.

Restoration Period and Remodeling

, Reinforcements and modernizations during the Restoration War.

, Demolition of part of the walls for the construction of the Church of the Jesuit College.

, Resistance against Napoleon's troops during the Peninsular War.

Damage and Reconstructions

, Damage caused by the Liberal Wars and catastrophes in the 19th century.

, Interventions by the Directorate-General for National Buildings and Monuments in the 20th century.

, Partial collapse of the battlements of the keep in 2014 and repair works.

Architectural Features

, Present architectural styles, such as Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, Medieval, and Mannerist.

, Pentagonal plan with walls, towers, and gates.

, Highlight for the Gothic-style keep, one of the most beautiful in Portugal.

Access and Visitation

, Open to the public after repair works in 2016.

, Panoramic view over the city and the Alentejo plain.

, Historical and architectural importance of the castle.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castelo_de_Beja

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