Castle of Cabeço de Vide

Category: Military Architecture > Castle

District: Portalegre > Fronteira > Cabeço de Vide > Sulfurea

Location

Located in the village of Cabeço de Vide, in the municipality of Fronteira, district of Portalegre, in Alentejo.

Origin and History

The occupation of the area is ancient, with vestiges dating back to prehistory, mainly from the Neolithic period. However, the most relevant occupation is associated with the Roman era, due to the medicinal waters of the area.

Roman Thermal Waters

Near the castle was a Roman bathhouse (thermae), known as A Sulfúrea, famous for its sulfurous waters, used since the reign of Caesar Augustus.

Foundation of the Castle

The medieval castle was built during the Christian Reconquista. Afonso Henriques conquered the area from the Muslims in 1160, but it was lost and destroyed again in 1190. The definitive reconstruction took place later, already on top of the hill, for reasons of border defense.

Historical Importance

During the 16th century, Cabeço de Vide had significant importance in the region. It was at this time that the Santa Casa de Misericórdia was founded by Queen D. Leonor, and the village received a New Charter from King D. Manuel I, in 1512.

Decline

The village and the castle suffered extensive damage during the Restoration War, which culminated in the decline of its relevance. In the 20th century, the village lost its municipality status, becoming part of the municipality of Fronteira in 1932.