Category: Archaeology > Settlement
District: Porto > Trofa > Alvarelhos > Alvarelhos e Guidões
Located in the Serra de Santa Eufémia, in Alvarelhos, municipality of Trofa, district of Porto.
It is an archaeological site of great value, classified as a National Monument since 1910, with occupations ranging from the Bronze Age to the Middle Ages.
The first vestiges show the presence of communities dedicated to agriculture and pastoralism, with finds such as ceramics and stone and flint tools.
It was known as "castellvm madiae", inhabited by the Madequenses, an indigenous population of the region. The proximity to an important Roman road connected the castro to Cale (Porto) and Bracara (Braga), reinforcing its strategic importance.
The Roman occupation was long and significant, with vestiges that shaped the structure of the site, including a milestone that confirms the Roman route.
From the 5th century onwards, the site was abandoned, although there was a brief occupation between the 9th and 12th centuries, followed by the construction of a church and cemetery, which remained until the 16th century.
The castro has an interpretive route with explanatory plaques that help to guide the visit and learn about its history. Guided tours can be scheduled for those who prefer an accompanied experience.
For scheduling guided tours, contact the number 252 400 090 or send an email to patrimoniocultural@mun-trofa.pt.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castro_de_Alvarelhos
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.300854535184,-8.61842597791576
Coordinates DMS: 41°18'3.1"N 08°37'6.3"W