Castro of Our Lady of Health or Murado Mount

Category: Archaeology > Fortified Settlement

District: Porto > Vila Nova de Gaia > Pedroso e Seixezelo > Senhora da Saúde

Location

The Castro da Senhora da Saúde, also known as Monte Murado (Walled Mount), is located on an elevated point in the village of Senhora da Saúde, in the parish of Pedroso e Seixezelo, in the municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto district. Its dominant position provides a serene natural environment, where visitors can appreciate the surrounding landscape from what was once a strategic point.

The view extending from this ancient settlement invites contemplation of the wider area of Gaia and its natural horizons, offering a tranquil refuge and a unique perspective on the territory.

Historical and Archaeological Significance

This site represents a significant testament to human presence in the region since ancient times. The Castro da Senhora da Saúde is an archaeological site revealing the existence of a pre-Roman settlement, typically dated to the Iron Age, which thrived on this natural promontory. Its name “Monte Murado” is particularly descriptive, alluding to the defensive structures that protected it.

The communities that settled here chose this location for its strategic advantage, allowing visual control over communication routes and the surrounding territory, essential for their security and subsistence. A visit allows one to imagine the daily life and concerns of these ancient populations.

Vestiges and Characterization

At Castro da Senhora da Saúde, it is possible to observe the vestiges of its ancient fortification. Although time and nature have shaped the site, evidence of the walls that once surrounded the settlement, serving as a protective barrier against invaders, still persists. These stone structures are the clearest evidence of its defensive function and the engineering used by its builders.

Beyond the walls, the topography of the terrain and any rock outcrops may suggest the internal organization of the settlement, where dwellings and communal spaces were distributed. The study of these vestiges is fundamental for understanding the social and urbanistic organization of the era.

Scenic and Contemplative Value

Beyond its unquestionable archaeological and historical value, the Castro da Senhora da Saúde offers an environment conducive to contemplation and contact with nature. Its elevation provides panoramic views extending over vast areas, making it an ideal place for those seeking tranquility and appreciation of the landscape.

The atmosphere surrounding the site, between the dense vegetation and the silent ruins, invites a reflective journey about history and the passage of time. It is a space where the memory of the past merges with the natural beauty of the present.

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