Category: Archaeology > Fortified Settlement
District: Bragança > Mirandela > Torre de Dona Chama
The São Brás Hillfort stands atop a hill, approximately 1 km from the village of Torre de Dona Chama, in the municipality of Mirandela. Surrounded by cork oaks and holm oaks, the site offers a wide visual dominion over the agricultural plains and river valleys of the region.
In a tranquil rural setting, the site is accessed via a dirt road that starts from Travessa de São Brás. At an altitude of approximately 400 m, a balance is maintained between rocky areas and Mediterranean vegetation patches.
The hillfort's origins date back to the Late Bronze Age, extending through the Iron Age, with continuous occupation during Roman and medieval times. This fortified settlement likely served as an oppidum, an elevated refuge that dominated the routes connecting Braga to Astorga.
Classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1955, the site preserves vestiges of walls and residential structures, now partially hidden by vegetation. The old mother church, dedicated to São Brás, recalls the religious and communal importance of the place throughout the centuries.
At the center of the hilltop stands a quadrangular bandstand, erected in the 20th century on a stonework base that alludes to the ancient medieval tower. Cheery white-painted columns support a concrete roof, creating a curious contrast between the modern and the traditional.
The exposed granite stones, irregular steps, and surrounding rock outcrops invite moments of contemplation and photography. The combination of light and shadow, with the low-lying vegetation, highlights the silent beauty of this historic spot.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.65478723802854,-7.120786781098948
Coordinates DMS: 41°39'17.2"N 07°07'14.8"W
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