Melros Battery

Category: Arquitetura Militar > Redoubt

District: Lisboa > Vila Franca de Xira > Calhandriz > Matos

Location

The Melros Battery is located in the Matos area, in the locality of Calhandriz, belonging to the municipality of Vila Franca de Xira. Integrated into a predominantly rural environment, this military battery enjoys a strategic position. Given its defensive nature, it is natural that the location offers wide views over the surrounding landscape, ideal for those who appreciate the tranquility of the countryside and panoramic observation.

A Legacy of the Peninsular War

This site is a testament to 19th-century military architecture, forming part of the first line of the vast defensive system known as the Torres Vedras Lines. Built around 1810, in the context of the Napoleonic invasions, the Melros Battery had the primary objective of defending Lisbon. It is characterized as a "barbette battery," a type of fortification where artillery operated over the parapet, allowing for a wider field of fire and significant visual control over the surrounding terrain.

Historical and Cultural Landmark

Conceived as an isolated military work, the Melros Battery was part of a complex network of forts and redoubts. In 1810, it was officially designated by Major Brandão de Sousa. Initially, it was equipped to receive artillery pieces, actively contributing to the defense strategy. Currently, the Melros Battery is recognized as an important historical-cultural landmark, being classified as an integral part of the Torres Lines complex. A visit offers an opportunity to reflect on a decisive period in Portugal's history and appreciate the military engineering of the time.

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