Category: Military Architecture > Castle
District: Santarém > Santarém > Alcanede > Mosteiros
The Alcanede Castle is located in the town of Alcanede, municipality of Santarém, in Portugal.
It is believed that the site was initially occupied by a pre-historic fort, reinforced by the Romans and later transformed into a medieval fortress.
It was conquered from the Moors by D. Afonso Henriques during the Reconquista and expanded to protect the town. It played an important role in the defense of the region for centuries.
It was associated with military orders such as those of Calatrava and Avis, which helped strengthen its structure. During the reign of D. Dinis, significant parts were built, including the Keep.
After the 1531 earthquake, the castle began to deteriorate. Without military utility, it was gradually abandoned.
Between 1941 and 1949, works were carried out to consolidate the ruins, preserving them as a historical landmark. Since 1943, the castle has been classified as a Property of Public Interest.
It features oval-shaped walls that surround the parade ground. The Keep and a turret on opposite sides stand out as important elements.
It is an ideal place to appreciate medieval history, explore the architecture of the ruins, and contemplate the landscape of the region.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castelo_de_Alcanede
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.4172156865118,-8.821442281330315
Coordinates DMS: 39°25'2.0"N 08°49'17.2"W