Category: Archaeology > Hillfort
District: Braga > Braga > Braga
Monte do Castro rises to one of the highest points in the crown of Braga, reaching approximately 198 m. From here, it is possible to dominate the Cávado river valley and a large part of the urban fabric, an understanding that explains the strategic choice of its ancient inhabitants.
Although granite extraction has deformed the southern slope, the eastern side retains its original gentle gradient, allowing one to glimpse how the settlement fit into the terrain.
This hill was occupied during the Iron Age, between the late 1st century BC and the early 1st century AD, a period during which it coexisted with the first Roman settlements in the region. Its abandonment coincides with the rise of Bracara Augusta, located less than one kilometre away.
Surveys carried out in the 20th century and in 2001 revealed two distinct phases of occupation. Among the pottery collected, a kalathos imported from Catalonia stands out, indicating Mediterranean commercial contacts prior to full Romanization.
The quarry destroyed much of the walls, but stretches of granite masonry, sections of ditches, and patches of beaten earth pavement still survive. Small embankments mark the defensive circuit that surrounded the summit.
Scattered throughout the interior, blocks and wall foundations can be observed, pointing to circular-plan houses, typical of the 'castros' (hillforts) of the Peninsular Northwest.
At the summit, the view encompasses the city of Braga, the fertile Cávado valley, and, in the distance, the foothills of Serra do Carvalho. This panoramic view helps to understand the defensive and symbolic importance of the place.
The slopes display a mix of spontaneous vegetation, granite outcrops, and abrupt embankments from the old quarry, creating a contrast between recovered nature and industrial scars.
The kalathos found on the mount (the only known example in Northwest Portugal) probably dates from 175, 50 BC. The piece confirms the circulation of goods and ideas between indigenous communities and Roman traders.
Since 1984, the site has been protected as a Property of Public Interest, highlighting its heritage value even with limited structures on the surface.
Monte do Castro offers visitors a field archaeology experience, where the still perceptible remains tell the story of the transition between the 'castro' world and Roman Braga.
In addition to its historical interest, the site provides extensive views over the city and the valley, inviting contemplation of the Minho landscape and reflection on human occupation over two millennia.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.5606122,-8.4283248
Coordinates DMS: 41°33'38.2"N 08°25'42.0"W
Weather Braga
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