Category: Military Architecture > Castle
District: Portalegre > Crato > Crato > Bairro de Pêro Filho
Located in the village of Crato, in the municipality of Crato, district of Portalegre, in the heart of Alentejo. The castle is situated in an elevated position, providing a dominant view over the village.
This castle is associated with the Hospitaller Order, which began building it in the 13th century, after receiving the territory. In 1340, Crato became the headquarters of this order in Portugal.
The castle was an important center for the Hospitaller Order and played a relevant role in various moments of Portuguese history, such as in the Restoration War, where its defenses were modernized and adapted for artillery.
It was classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1982, recognizing its historical and architectural value.
Originally, the castle had a trapezoidal plan, reinforced by towers, some of which can still be seen in ruins, such as the keep and some walls.
In the 17th century, during the Restoration War, the castle was transformed into a star-shaped fortification, adapted to the military techniques of the time. Some structures, such as the artillery platforms, the cistern and the fortin gate, can still be visited.
Throughout the 20th century, especially after 1939, the castle underwent several phases of restoration and conservation, which still continue today to preserve what remains of the fortification.
Parts of the medieval wall, the cistern, and towers in ruins remain. The North bastion has been recently restored, including its twelve casemates and a sentry box.
There is a plan for the revitalization of the castle, which includes the creation of a museum, exhibition rooms, audiovisual center and an accommodation area.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castelo_do_Crato
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.28463022046911,-7.642931074595751
Coordinates DMS: 39°17'4.7"N 07°38'34.6"W
Weather Crato
On-duty Pharmacy Crato
