Outeiro Fortress

Category: Military Architecture > Fortress

District: Bragança > Bragança > Outeiro

Location

The Outeiro Fortress, also known as Outeiro de Miranda Castle, is located in the village of Outeiro, in the municipality and district of Bragança, Portugal.

Ancient History

Although there is little information about the initial human occupation, the fortification dates back to Roman times, where there was possibly an agricultural settlement.

Medieval Castle

The current construction of the castle dates back to the reign of King Dinis (1279-1325). During the Middle Ages, it served to monitor the border between Trás-os-Montes and the kingdom of León.

Strategic Importance

The Outeiro de Miranda Castle was a strategic point to protect the region from invasions and enemy attacks, such as the one that occurred during the invasion of Henry II of Castile in 1369.

Support for D. Beatriz

During the crisis of 1383-1385, the fortress and the village supported the party of D. Beatriz, but were conquered during the siege of Chaves by the forces of D. João I.

Expansion and Reconstruction

D. João I reinforced the fortress by granting tax exemption to those who built houses within the castle walls. The walls were rebuilt, and the village moved to the valley.

Restoration War

During the 17th century, the castle was attacked by Spanish troops in the context of the Restoration War, and again attacked in 1762.

Current State

Over the centuries, the castle was abandoned and fell into ruins. In 1955, it was classified as a Property of Public Interest. Some improvement works were carried out in 1993.

Castle Features

The fortress is located on an elevation of 812 meters above sea level, with an irregular organic oval plan, surrounded by a thick granite stone wall.

Remaining Constructions

Inside the castle, remains of a rectilinear construction with a lintel span can be identified, where a geodesic landmark was erected. The access door in a full arch and the remains of a bulwark on the south side are also visible.

Archaeological Research

Currently, the monument lacks further archaeological research to better understand its history and importance.

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

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