Mogadouro Castle

Category: Military Architecture > Castle

District: Bragança > Mogadouro > Mogadouro > Mogadouro, Valverde, Vale de Porco e Vilar de Rei

Location

Mogadouro Castle stands impressively in the village of Mogadouro, in the district of Bragança, in Trás-os-Montes. Located on the northern slope of the Serra de Mogadouro, atop a granite outcrop, this site offers expansive views over the surrounding landscape of the Mirandês Plateau, extending between the Douro and Sabor rivers. Its strategic position was crucial throughout history, and the village developed around this fortification, with the medieval nucleus spreading radially around the castle.

A Millennial Historical Legacy

The history of Mogadouro Castle is deeply rooted in time, with vestiges pointing to an occupation of the site since prehistory, through the Roman era, and later, the presence of Visigoths and Muslims. It was in the 12th century that this strategic point gained decisive importance for the newly formed kingdom of Portugal. Around 1145, King D. Afonso Henriques donated Mogadouro Castle to the Knights Templar, who, between 1160 and 1165, built or improved it to consolidate the defense of the eastern border of the national territory.

From Fortress to Residence

Initially conceived as a robust fortress by the Templars, Mogadouro Castle underwent several transformations over the centuries. After the dissolution of the Order of the Temple in the early 14th century, its assets were transferred to the Order of Christ. Under the aegis of this new military order, the castle's structure was adapted to serve as a residence for the commanders. Later, in the 15th century, the influential Távora family took control and transformed the castle into a sumptuous palace. This palace-fortress played a vital role in the defense of Trás-os-Montes, especially during the War of Restoration in the 17th century. However, after the decline of the Távoras in the 18th century, the castle was progressively abandoned, falling into a state of ruin until, from 1950 onwards, consolidation and restoration works were initiated, allowing for its current preservation.

Architecture and Appearance

Mogadouro Castle represents a good example of the medieval military architecture of the region, built essentially from schist mortared with clay, with granite stonework elements. Among the vestiges preserved today, the imposing Keep Tower stands out, with a quadrangular plan, rising above the original rocky outcrops. This tower, the oldest and most emblematic structure of the complex, features crenellated battlements and arrow slits that once served for defense. Beside it stands the Clock Tower, a later addition with an engraved sundial, giving it a distinctive character. Visitors can also observe some sections of the old wall, with an irregular oval layout, and the remains of the barbican and the well, elements that allow a journey through time to understand the life and function of this historic castle.

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