Category: Military Architecture > Tower
District: Porto > Lousada > Vilar do Torno e Alentém > Vilar do Torno
Located in Vilar do Torno e Alentém, in the municipality of Lousada, the Tower of Vilar stands out in the place called Torre, offering a magnificent view over the Sousa River valley.
This medieval construction dates back to the late 13th century and is a rare example of a manor house, known as Domus Fortis. It represents an important testimony of the architecture of the time.
With 14 meters in height, the tower was designed to convey an image of power and nobility. Its shape is linked to the idea of Keep, typical of medieval fortresses.
The Tower was inhabited by the lords of Riba de Vizela, who expanded into this region in search of new opportunities, abandoning more populated lands.
In addition to serving as a dwelling, the tower had a defensive role, allowing the control of the new territories and ensuring the safety of the local inhabitants.
Since 1978, the Tower of Vilar has been classified as a Property of Public Interest and is part of the Romanesque Route of the Sousa Valley, attracting visitors interested in history and medieval architecture.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torre_de_Vilar
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.287691253852564,-8.208458584762825
Coordinates DMS: 41°17'15.7"N 08°12'30.5"W