New Battery of Subserra

Category: Arquitetura Militar > Redoubt

District: Lisboa > Vila Franca de Xira > Subserra > Quinta da Ponte

Location

The Nova de Subserra Battery is situated in an elevated position within the Quinta da Ponte urbanization, in the picturesque locality of Subserra, part of the municipality of Vila Franca de Xira. Erected at approximately 195 meters of altitude, this military structure is located in the Serra de São Lourenço, near Alhandra, enjoying a predominantly rural setting. Its strategic placement offers a unique perspective on the surrounding area, revealing the reason for its historical importance.

Strategic Defense of the 19th Century

This battery is an integral element of the First Line of the vast defensive system known as the Lines of Torres Vedras. It was built at the beginning of the 19th century, by order of General Wellesley, in the context of the French Invasions. Its main purpose was to safeguard the capital, Lisbon, acting as an essential flanking redoubt for the steep front of Alhandra. With its location, the Nova de Subserra Battery was able to protect the road connecting Arruda to Alhandra, ensuring crossfire with the First Subserra Fort, a key point in the region's defense.

A Military Portrait

Designed to accommodate a garrison of up to 370 soldiers, the Nova de Subserra Battery was a vital point in the defense line. Its force was composed of a diversity of combatants, including militias, local levies, and Portuguese artillerymen, who had the support of Lieutenant-General Rowland Hill's Second Division. In 1810, this important military work received the designation of Nova de Subserra Battery, a name that perpetuates its memory and strategic relevance in Portuguese military history.

Heritage and Memory

Currently, the Nova de Subserra Battery transcends its original military function, being recognized as a significant historical-cultural landmark. It is part of the classified complex of the Lines of Torres Vedras, a monumental testament to a time of great challenges for the country. Visiting this site provides an opportunity to connect with a crucial piece of Portugal's history, inviting reflection on the events that shaped the territory and national identity, within a rural landscape that encourages an encounter with nature and the past.

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