Castle of Valongo

Category: Military Architecture > Castle

District: Évora > Évora > Valongo > Balancho

Location

Located in the parish of Nossa Senhora de Machede, in the municipality of Évora, Alentejo, Portugal.

Position

It is situated on an elevation on the Herdade da Grã, near the village stream.

Classification

Declared a National Monument since 1910.

History and Background

- Ancient Occupation: The site was initially inhabited by the Romans, followed by Visigoths and Muslims.

- Islamic Fortification: The Muslims were responsible for the fortification of the site, evidenced by Islamic inscriptions found inside.

- Christian Reconquest: During the Reconquest, the structure was rebuilt in the late 14th or early 15th century.

From the 20th Century to Today

- Current State: Despite being a National Monument, the castle is currently in ruins.

Architectural Features

- Structure: The castle has a square plan, with four quadrangular towers at the vertices.

- Walls: The top of the walls has a parapet walk protected by also quadrangular merlons.

- Keep: This tower is divided into three floors, with brick vaults in ribbed vaults.

- Other Towers: On the west side, there is a smaller tower, attached to the wall, with a side entrance.

- Arrowslits: The openings in the walls are characteristic of the medieval period, indicating the reconstruction of the castle in the 14th and 15th centuries.

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