Dog Fort (Gelfa)

Category: Military Architecture > Fort

District: Viana do Castelo > Caminha > Gelfa > Âncora

Location

Small fortification located in Gelfa, south of Vila Praia de Âncora, in the municipality of Caminha, district of Viana do Castelo.

Classification

Property of Public Interest since 1967.

History

Built between 1699 and 1702 to protect the coast against possible Spanish or pirate attacks.

It was part of a set of four coastal forts between Caminha and Viana do Castelo, complementing other fortifications such as the Forte da Lagarteira and the Forte da Ínsua.

It had a short military activity, being deactivated in 1716, but maintained a commander.

Architecture

Small coastal fortification with bulwarked structure and star-shaped plan.

It has four bulwarks of different sizes.

Facade facing the sea in a curved shape, while the opposite side is concave and has the main entrance with a perfect arch.

Inside, there were service dependencies organized around a small courtyard.

Curiosities

Structurally similar to other coastal forts in the region, such as those of Areosa and Montedor.

It is believed to have been designed by the same architect as the remaining forts of the Minho coast.

Visit

Small but interesting for those who like history and military architecture.

Privileged location next to the beach and nature, ideal for a walk.

It does not have tourist services on site, but it is a point of historical interest in the region.

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

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