Category: Archaeology > Battlefield
District: Portalegre > Fronteira > Fronteira
The Terreiro da Batalha dos Atoleiros is located in the locality of Fronteira, in the municipality of Fronteira, district of Portalegre. This site is situated in a rural area, on the Herdade dos Atoleiros, and offers a tranquil and rural environment. The surrounding landscape retains the characteristics of the era in which the historical events took place, inviting contemplation and immersion in the past.
This is the stage for one of the most significant moments in the history of Portugal: the Batalha dos Atoleiros, fought on April 6, 1384. It was here that the Portuguese army, under the leadership of the Constable D. Nuno Álvares Pereira, achieved a fundamental victory over the Castilian forces, despite being outnumbered. This confrontation was a decisive step towards the affirmation of the kingdom's independence, which would be consolidated later.
The strategic genius of D. Nuno Álvares Pereira was notably manifested in this battle, where his innovative square tactic surprised the enemy. It is a popular tradition to mention that the Portuguese suffered no casualties in this combat, an exceptional feat that reinforces the victorious character of the battle and its importance for Portugal's future.
The Terreiro da Batalha dos Atoleiros has been officially classified as an Imóvel de Interesse Público (IIP), Property of Public Interest, underlining its profound importance to Portugal's heritage. This recognition is due not only to its unquestionable historical value but also to how the local landscape preserves the memory of the confrontation.
The site maintains its original topography, allowing visitors to feel the atmosphere of the battlefield and reflect on the crucial events that occurred there centuries ago.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.021649687097, -7.6321408516129
Coordinates DMS: 39°01'17.9"N 07°37'55.7"W