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