Castle of the Moors of Vilarinho dos Galegos

Category: Archaeology > Settlement

District: Bragança > Mogadouro > Vilarinho dos Galegos > Vilarinho dos Galegos e Ventozelo

Location and Context

- Located in the Union of Parishes of Vilarinho dos Galegos and Ventozelo, Municipality of Mogadouro.

- It is located at an altitude of 600 meters on the banks of the Douro River.

- Strategic location in the Douro International Natural Park.

Natural Defense and Defensive Structures

- Privileged location on an elevation with steep rocky slopes.

- "Embedded stones" and a ditch dug in the rock for protection against invasions.

- Rampart wall and stone turret that reinforced the defense.

- Originally existing entrance, currently closed, with approximately 7.50 meters in length.

Domestic Structures

- Flattened platform after the defensive complex, possibly a residential area.

- Traces of clay and gravel pavements from the Iron Age.

- Rectangular stone structures associated with the Late Roman period.

- Indications of agricultural activities, animal husbandry and artisanal practices.

Ways of Life and Activities

- Hunting, animal husbandry and agricultural practices sustained the community.

- Evidence of spinning, weaving and metallurgy, mainly iron.

- Fragments of bones and combustion structures indicate dietary habits.

- Artisanal activities, such as the production of pegs and nails, essential for construction.

Collection and Visitor Experience

- Diversity of archaeological materials, ranging from the Iron Age to the Modern Age.

- Appreciate the natural beauty of the Douro International Natural Park around the castle.

- Explore the defensive structures, residential platforms and glimpse the Douro River.

- Understand the rich history of human activities and the way of life of the time.

Cultural Heritage

- Designated a Monument of Municipal Interest in 2016.

- Research project promoted by the Municipality of Mogadouro and supported by António Cepeda Alves.

- Discover the historical layers of this archaeological site and its importance in the region.

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

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