Castro of Ciragata

Category: Archaeology > Hillfort

District: Bragança > Bragança > Parada e Faílde

Location

The Castro de Ciragata rises majestically in the municipality of Bragança, in the locality of Parada e Faílde. Situated atop a hill, at an altitude of approximately 890 meters, this location offers wide and serene views over the surrounding Trás-os-Montes landscape. This rural setting, dotted with agricultural fields and scrubland, provides a peaceful environment and invites nature observation.

A Journey Through Time to the Iron Age

This site is a valuable testament to a fortified settlement from the Iron Age, also known as Cidadelhe de Parada. Dating back to ancient times, the Castro de Ciragata represents a proto-urban agglomeration, in other words, one of the first models of community organization that preceded cities in the region. Its presence reminds us how communities established and thrived in this territory thousands of years ago.

The Ancient Walls and Defenses

Upon exploring the Castro de Ciragata, it is possible to observe the remains of a complex defensive structure. The ancient constructions were erected with loose stone, forming a high and solid wall that surrounded the settlement. At the most vulnerable points of access, the inhabitants of the time built several lines of defense, complemented by a wide and deep ditch, revealing the ingenuity and concern for the safety of its ancient inhabitants.

Recognition and Protection

The historical and archaeological importance of Castro de Ciragata is officially recognized in Portugal. This site is classified as a Property of Public Interest, a distinction that underlines its cultural and patrimonial value. Its protection ensures that this significant Iron Age legacy remains accessible for future generations, allowing for an understanding of a remote past and the valorization of the region's archaeological heritage.

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