Idanha-a-Nova Castle

Category: Military Architecture > Castle

District: Castelo Branco > Idanha-a-Nova > Idanha-a-Nova > Senhora da Graça

Location

The Castle of Idanha-a-Nova rises majestically atop a hill, approximately 340 meters in altitude, in the locality of Idanha-a-Nova. Its elevated position offers a unique perspective over the village and the natural surroundings, with the Pônsul river flowing gently at the foot of the hill where the ruins stand. A stairway and cobbled path invite visitors to ascend to the enclosure, adapted to the terrain's slope.

From this strategic point, it is possible to enjoy an expansive view of the vast Idanha plain and, to the east, spot the border with Spain. The atmosphere is one of tranquility, inviting contemplation of the landscape.

Medieval Roots

The history of this castle dates back to the 12th century, a period when its construction is attributed to the powerful Order of the Knights Templar, under the leadership of Master D. Gualdim Pais. Built in 1187, the castle was a fundamental piece in border defense, integrated into the extensive network of fortifications that the Order maintained in Beira Baixa, sharing architectural characteristics with other Templar strongholds.

Its role was crucial in the development of the settlement. In the early 13th century, to boost population and reinforce its security, the locality received a royal charter, at which point it was named Idanha-a-Nova, distinguishing it from an older settlement in the region. Over the centuries, the castle witnessed the village's progress.

Witness to Time

Currently, the Castle of Idanha-a-Nova presents itself as a set of ruins that still allow a glimpse of its original, irregular and oval plan. The lower courses of the old walls, in granite ashlar, survive, remarkably adapting to the rocky morphology of the terrain. Although much of the original structure has disappeared over time, the site has been preserved and transformed.

The castle enclosure has been leveled and converted into a viewpoint, where a stone cross stands. This space, which once served military purposes, is now a place of cultural and recreational value, keeping alive the memory of past times and inviting discovery of its rich history.

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