Castle of Torres Novas

Category: Military Architecture > Castle

District: Santarém > Torres Novas > Torres Novas > São Pedro, Lapas e Ribeira Branca

Location

It is located in the parish of Santa Maria, in Torres Novas, district of Santarém. It is situated in an elevated position, overlooking the town and the Almonda River.

Historical Significance

It has been a national monument since 1910, standing out as a symbol of Torres Novas and the region's history.

Origin and Initial Occupation

The site has traces of ancient occupation, attributed to various cultures, such as Celts, Romans, and Muslims.

Christian Conquest

The castle was definitively taken by D. Afonso Henriques in 1148, during the Reconquista. The town gained the name "Novas" to distinguish it from Torres Vedras.

Assaults and Reconstructions

It was the target of attacks, especially by the Almohads in 1184 and 1190, and was rebuilt during the reign of D. Sancho I, who also granted it the first charter.

Contribution of D. Fernando

In the 14th century, King D. Fernando ordered the expansion of the town's walls, reinforcing the defense.

18th Century and Decline

The castle suffered extensive damage in the 1755 earthquake and was abandoned.

Modern Restoration

In the 20th century, restoration work was carried out, especially in the 1940s. In 2005-2006, the City Council requalified the area, creating leisure spaces and improving access to the monument.

Architectural Features

It has a rectangular plan and originally nine towers. Although part of the wall has disappeared, some sections can still be observed.

Legend of Gil Paes

It tells the story of the courage of the warden who, during a Castilian invasion in 1372, refused to hand over the castle even under the threat of his son's execution.

Access to the Castle

In 2022, the construction of an elevator was approved to improve access to the site, integrating into the historical and heritage setting.

Visits

Currently, the castle is well-preserved and open to the public, being a point of interest to learn about the history and enjoy privileged views of the region.

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

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