Formigal's stronghold

Category: Archaeology > Redoubt

District: Lisboa > Torres Vedras > São Pedro da Cadeira > Casal dos Cochos

Location

The Redoubt of Formigal is located in the area of Casal dos Cochos, in the locality of São Pedro da Cadeira, in the municipality of Torres Vedras. Its elevated position is characteristic of military fortifications of the time, offering a strategic perspective over the surrounding landscape. This position allowed for visual and defensive control of the area, essential for its original purpose.

Historical Context

The Redoubt of Formigal is one of several constructions that make up the Lines of Torres Vedras, a notable defensive system erected in the early 19th century. This set of fortifications was designed to protect the city of Lisbon from French invasions during the Peninsular War. Its existence underscores the strategic importance of the Torres Vedras region in that period of Portuguese history, bearing witness to the military efforts of the time.

The Structure and Its Purpose

In the context of the Lines of Torres Vedras, a redoubt is a smaller fortification, usually isolated and with a generally quadrangular plan. Its main function was to serve as an autonomous defense point, reinforcing the main defensive line or controlling specific accesses. The Redoubt of Formigal exemplifies these small, yet crucial, defensive works, which were designed to operate independently or in coordination with other strategic positions along the Lines.

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