Ourem Castle or Palace of the Counts of Ourem

Category: Military Architecture > Castle

District: Santarém > Ourém > Ourém > Antiga Vila de Ourém

Location

Ourém Castle is located in the parish of Nossa Senhora das Misericórdias, in the municipality of Ourém, district of Santarém. It is situated in an elevated position, overlooking the medieval village and the Seiça stream.

Historical Significance

The castle has been a National Monument since 1910 and represents one of the most beautiful landmarks of Portuguese military architecture. Its history dates back to prehistory, with successive Roman, Visigothic, and Muslim occupations.

Structure and Architecture

Built on top of a hill at 330 meters altitude, the castle has an irregular triangular plan, with towers at the vertices. In the center, there is a medieval cistern with a Gothic structure.

Of note is the Palace of the Counts (Paço dos Condes), a 15th-century residence with Venetian-inspired elements, and the entrance towers, which connected the Palace to the castle through a covered passage.

Collegiate Church and Crypt

The initial church was founded by D. Afonso Henriques and expanded in the 15th century by the 4th Count of Ourém. Despite the damage from the 1755 earthquake, the crypt survived, showcasing a unique architecture and the tomb of Count D. Afonso.

Significant Events

, In the 15th century, D. Afonso, the 4th Count of Ourém, remodeled the castle and revitalized the town, marking the era of greatest splendor.

, During the Peninsular War and the 1755 earthquake, the complex suffered significant damage.

, Recent works in 2021 restored the Palace, ensuring its preservation and transforming it into a space with museum exhibitions.

Cultural and Visual Elements

, The Gothic fountain and the Baroque pillory are unique attractions.

, The Terreiro de Santiago features a statue of D. Nuno Álvares Pereira.

, The architectural details of the Palace, such as the projecting brick cornices, are inspiring for visitors.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castelo_de_Ourém

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