Keep

Category: Military Architecture > Tower

District: Guarda > Guarda > Guarda > Judiária

Location

Located in the city of Guarda, in the area currently known as Judiaria, the Keep stands as the highest point of the locality, at approximately 1056 meters of altitude. Its dominant position allows it to be a visible and central element in the urban landscape, clearly standing out at the top of the city. The surroundings are marked by history and ancient urbanization, reflecting the original character of that part of Guarda.

The tower is built upon a natural rocky outcrop, which reinforces its robustness and makes it an integral part of the city's geographical profile.

History and Architecture

The Keep of Guarda is an architectural testament to the reign of D. Dinis, its construction having occurred between 1279 and 1325. Its erection responded to growing defensive needs and served as the heart of a military complex, known as the alcáçova. This tower also represents a memory of the passage of kings through the city and the defense of the kingdom. The complex was not only for defense but also residential, housing the chief alcaide, royal officials, and the military garrison.

With an irregular pentagonal plan, the tower was designed for an active role in defensive strategy. Although it now stands isolated, it was once integrated into the city wall, in a more restricted access area, functioning as the main protective structure of the citadel. Its original opening, on the second floor, facing North, is still visible, offering a glimpse into its medieval conception.

A Journey Through the Interior

The interior of the Keep invites a journey through its three floors, each with a distinct atmosphere. With wooden floors, the spaces provide an experience that connects the visitor to the history of Guarda.

On the ground floor, visitors will find a space dedicated to the narrative of the city's urban evolution, with a projection offering a perspective on Guarda's more than 800 years of history. The middle floor, sometimes referred to as the "Magic Book Floor," allows for interactive exploration of the city's Foral Charter and its history in comic book format. These moments invite discovery and immersion into Guarda's past.

Views Over the Region

The top floor of the Keep offers an exceptional panorama, providing a 360-degree perspective over the city of Guarda and the vast expanse of the Beira Plateau. From here, it is possible to contemplate the surrounding landscape, grasping the city's dimension and strategic location.

This elevated point is ideal for observing the urban and natural morphology of the region, inviting contemplation and the capture of images that linger in the memory of visitors. The breadth of the visible horizon is one of the major attractions of climbing to the top of the tower.

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