Castro of Monte Mozinho or Dead City of Penafiel

Category: Archaeology > Hillfort

District: Porto > Penafiel > Oldrões > Cidade Morta

Location

The Castro de Monte Mozinho, also affectionately known as the Dead City of Penafiel, rises majestically on an elevation of the terrain in the locality of Oldrões, in the municipality of Penafiel. Its elevated position offers a vast and serene panorama over the surrounding landscape, particularly over the Sousa River valley, providing a unique perspective on the environment that once hosted a vibrant community. Walking through this site is immersing oneself in a serene setting, where nature intertwines with the marks of a distant past.

The Legacy of Two Cultures

This remarkable archaeological site is a unique testament to the cultural and social transition that occurred in the Northwest Iberian Peninsula. Monte Mozinho was occupied since the 4th century BC, emerging as a prosperous Iron Age settlement, part of the so-called Castro culture. However, it was from the 1st century AD that the site underwent profound Romanization, resulting in a fascinating fusion of influences. The existing remains reflect the coexistence and superposition of indigenous and Roman traditions, creating a rich and complex historical scenario that invites reflection on the evolution of civilizations.

The Imposing Structures

The ruins of the Castro de Monte Mozinho reveal a remarkable urban organization for its time. It is possible to observe the impressive lines of walls that once defended the settlement, as well as the intricate network of streets that connected the different areas. Noteworthy are the remains of residential constructions, which exhibit both the characteristic circular plans of Castro dwellings and the rectangular forms introduced by the Romans. In addition to the houses, this site houses public structures of great importance, such as the Roman baths, a probable forum, and even a temple, elements that underscore the importance and civilizational dimension achieved by this ancient settlement.

Accounts of Ancient Life

Exploring the Castro de Monte Mozinho is like turning the pages of a history book. Every stone, every wall foundation, silently narrates the daily life of its inhabitants: their beliefs, their crafts, their social and economic interactions. Archaeological excavations at the site have revealed a vast array of artifacts, from ceramics to tools and coins, allowing specialists to reconstruct life in this "city" which, after a long period of occupation, was gradually abandoned, becoming the "Dead City" we know today. Walking through these remains is an opportunity to imagine the lives that flourished here and the legacy they left for future generations.

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