Milhariça Fort

Category: Military Architecture > Fort

District: Lisboa > Mafra > Encarnação > Abrunheira

Location

The Milhariça Fort is located in the Abrunheira area, within the locality of Encarnação, in the municipality of Mafra. Built at an altitude of 302 meters, this fort benefits from an elevated position that provides it with a predominantly rural setting, part of the vast territory of the Tapada Nacional de Mafra. Its location allows for views of the surrounding landscape.

Testimony of the Lines of Torres

This fort, dating from the 19th century, constitutes one of the important structures that comprised the defensive system known as the Lines of Torres Vedras. Erected by order of General Wellesley, it played a crucial role in the defense of Lisbon against French invasions during the Peninsular War. The Milhariça Fort, designated as Military Work nº 75, is one of the elements that mark this page of Portuguese military history.

Military Conception

The construction of the Milhariça Fort was designed for a specific defensive purpose. Its architectural design reflected the military needs of the time, being capable of housing a garrison of about 70 soldiers and operating two 9-pounder artillery pieces. Its garrison was mainly composed of local militias and ordinaries, equipped with weaponry characteristic of the period, such as Baker carbines and Brown Bess muskets, integrating the Lecor Division.

A Historical and Scenic Landmark

Currently, the Milhariça Fort is recognized as a significant historical-cultural landmark. A visit to this site offers the opportunity to immerse oneself in an atmosphere of serenity, while also allowing reflection on its military past. It is a place where historical memory merges with the tranquility of the surrounding natural scenery, inviting an experience of discovery and contemplation.

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