Montemor-o-Novo Castle

Category: Military Architecture > Castle

District: Évora > Montemor-o-Novo > Montemor-o-Novo > Bairro de São Pedro

Location

Montemor-o-Novo Castle rises imposingly in the high part of the town, in the Bairro de São Pedro, dominating the surrounding landscape. Its elevated position offers a wide and unobstructed view over the Alentejo landscape, with its fields and cork oak forests, as well as over the urban fabric of Montemor-o-Novo itself. The site allows one to feel the integration of history into the daily life of the locality.

A Journey Through Time

The history of Montemor-o-Novo Castle is profound and dates back to periods prior to the very foundation of Portugal. The site where this castle stands has been inhabited since the Iron Age, witnessing the passage of various civilizations. There are vestiges of Roman and Islamic presence that attest to its strategic importance throughout the centuries. After the Christian reconquest, the castle played a central role in the defense and administration of the territory. It was the scene of significant events for the kingdom, serving as a meeting place for the Cortes and for important decisions, some of which were related to the Portuguese Discoveries, such as Vasco da Gama's preparations for his voyage to India.

The Walls and the Setting

The robust walls of Montemor-o-Novo Castle, partly well preserved, invite exploration of its perimeter and interior. It is possible to wander through the extensive parade ground, an open space where the remains of the old church and the keep are found, giving an idea of the complex's dimension and importance. The presence of the Clock Tower, one of the most visible elements of the complex, integrates into the medieval architecture, functioning as a landmark in the town's landscape. Exploring the castle allows one to appreciate the military architecture of past eras and imagine the life that unfolded there, in an environment that combines monumentality with the tranquility of the surrounding landscape.

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