Fort of Saint Anthony of Enxara dos Cavaleiros (North)

Category: Military Architecture > Fort

District: Lisboa > Mafra > Enxara dos Cavaleiros > Santo António

Location

Located in the municipality of Mafra, in the district of Lisbon, the Fort of Santo António da Enxara dos Cavaleiros (North) is found in the vicinity of the locality of Enxara dos Cavaleiros, in the Santo António area. Its position was chosen based on strategic criteria, likely on an elevated point of the landscape, which grants it visual dominance over the rural surroundings.

This location, typical of military works of the era, allowed for effective control of access routes and the surrounding terrain, being essential for its defensive function and for coordination with other fortifications in the region.

A Legacy of the Lines of Torres

This remarkable military post is integrated into the vast defensive network known as the Lines of Torres Vedras. Identified as Military Work 28, the Fort of Santo António da Enxara dos Cavaleiros (North) played a crucial role in the defense of Lisbon during the Napoleonic invasions in the early 19th century. Its construction was part of an ingenious fortified system, built in secret, which aimed to halt the advance of French troops towards the capital.

The existence of this fort is a testament to the engineering capability and the Portuguese and British military strategy that, together, created an impassable barrier, decisively influencing the outcome of the Peninsular War.

Design and Strategic Function

As an integral part of the Lines of Torres, the design of the Fort of Santo António da Enxara dos Cavaleiros (North) reflects the urgency and effectiveness of military engineering of the time. Its structure is adapted to the terrain, often comprising earthworks, platforms for artillery, and sometimes defensive ditches or palisades, all designed to maximize defensive and observation capabilities.

The fort's design allowed for visual and fire control over the approach areas, functioning in coordination with other military works that made up the defensive line, ensuring robust and interconnected protection against any enemy assault.

Views and Historical Memory

When visiting the Fort of Santo António da Enxara dos Cavaleiros (North), visitors are invited to contemplate not only the beauty of the landscape stretching across the municipality of Mafra but also to reflect on the historical importance of this site. The views that once served to watch the enemy now offer a tranquil panorama of the rurality and fields.

The fort remains a landmark of resistance, a symbol of a nation's defensive capability, and a link to a decisive period in Portugal's history. Its presence recalls the efforts and ingenuity that ensured the country's sovereignty.

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