Bemposta Wall

Category: Military Architecture > Walls

District: Bragança > Mogadouro > Bemposta > Sítio da Muralha

Location

The Bemposta Wall is located in the locality of Bemposta, municipality of Mogadouro, with its remains integrated into the area known as Sítio da Muralha (Wall Site). These fragments are visible in various points of the historic center of the village, particularly in Rua do Quartel, Rua do Castelo, and Rua da Muralha do Castelo, as well as in the vicinity of the parish church. Its presence confers a unique character to the urban layout of this ancient village, inviting a journey that reveals layers of its history.

Vestiges of a Military Past

This architectural complex, of a military nature, dates back to the Middle Ages and was ordered to be built by D. Dinis in the year 1315. Its construction aimed to protect the then new village of Bemposta, which was previously known as Pereinha. Erected in a context of an unstable border, the wall played a crucial role in the defense of the territory, as evidenced by accounts of attacks during the reign of D. Afonso IV. Over the centuries, and with the stabilization of the borders, its defensive function diminished, which led to its progressive decline and ruin. The fragments visible today are a testament to its imposing past and the strategic importance it once held.

Construction Characteristics

The original wall of Bemposta extended for an approximate perimeter of 340 meters, with an average thickness of about three meters. Its engineering took advantage of the natural topography of the terrain, resting on rocky outcrops whenever possible. The construction is distinguished by the use of small and medium-sized granite blocks, carefully arranged on both the exterior and interior faces, forming what is known as pseudo-isodomic masonry. Its interior was filled with smaller rocky elements and clay material, compacted. It is thought that in the past, there were three entrances that allowed access to the interior of the walled enclosure, located to the west, to the east, and possibly a false door.

Environment and Integration into the Village

The remnants of the Bemposta Wall, although fragmented, offer a setting that refers to the medieval essence of the ancient village. Walking through the streets where the wall is integrated allows one to appreciate how the construction adapted to the natural environment, with the rock itself sometimes serving as a base or even as a paving in some sections. Its presence is a central element in the urban landscape of Bemposta, inviting contemplation of its historical value and the atmosphere that still evokes medieval times, providing an authentic perspective on the locality's past.

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