New Redoubt of Ordasqueira

Category: Archaeology > Redoubt

District: Lisboa > Torres Vedras > Ordasqueira > Santa Maria, São Pedro e Matacães

Location

The Reduto Novo da Ordasqueira is situated in the parish of Santa Maria, São Pedro e Matacães, in the municipality of Torres Vedras, Lisbon district. Rising in the area of the locality of Ordasqueira, this point offers a perspective on the surrounding landscape that was once crucial for its military function.

Its strategic location reflects the importance of the terrain in the design of the Lines of Torres, utilizing natural elevations for control and surveillance of valleys and access routes, a common characteristic of many defensive works from this era.

Memory of the Lines of Torres

This site is one of the notable remnants of the vast defensive network known as the Lines of Torres Vedras, classified as Military Work 149. Ingeniously constructed in the early 19th century, between 1809 and 1810, these lines were a strategic response to the French invasions during the Peninsular War.

The Reduto Novo da Ordasqueira, as an integral part of this defensive system, had the primary purpose of reinforcing the region's defense, controlling access and vulnerable flanks. Its construction demonstrates the expertise of military engineering of the time, aiming to halt the advance of Napoleonic troops towards Lisbon and protect the kingdom's capital.

Design and Remnants

As a military structure, this work typically consisted of a small fort, built mainly with earth and stone, designed to withstand direct attacks and provide defensive fire in multiple directions. These defensive posts were often complemented by ditches and artillery platforms, blending into the landscape to maximize their effectiveness.

Currently, visitors can observe the remnants of its original form, which merge with the terrain. Although time and the natural elements have altered its initial configuration, it is still possible to discern the outlines that once served as shelter and bulwark, testifying to its former defensive function.

Relevance and Environment

A visit to the Reduto Novo da Ordasqueira offers not only direct contact with Portuguese military history but also the opportunity to appreciate the natural environment in which it is set. The tranquility of the site and the panoramic views it provides invite reflection on the events that unfolded here over two centuries ago.

This redoubt is a symbol of the resilience and strategic intelligence that enabled the defense of Portugal during a critical period. Its presence in the landscape of Torres Vedras is a tangible reminder of the past and the importance of preserving these marks of our collective history for future generations.

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