Category: Archaeology > Hillfort
District: Vila Real > Valpaços > Ribas
The Castro de Ribas stands in the locality of Ribas, in the municipality of Valpaços, occupying an elevated spur known as "Alto da Cerca". This remote and rural site, covered by pine forest and scrubland, offers a privileged perspective over the natural surroundings. It is a point where one feels the transition between the "Cold Land" (Terra Fria) and the "Hot Land" (Terra Quente) of Trás-os-Montes, and from where the Tua river basin and the Serra de Passos in the distance are dominated.
Situated in an isolated and strategic position, overlooking the Regato da Quebrada stream, Castro de Ribas stands out for its location which allowed for extensive surveillance over the surrounding territory, a common characteristic of many ancient settlements in this region.
This ancient fortified settlement is a striking testament to human presence in Trás-os-Montes over vast periods. Its origin dates back to Proto-History, more precisely to the Late Bronze Age, and its occupation extended through Antiquity, with significant traces of Roman presence. Castro de Ribas is a site of great historical and archaeological importance, classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1984.
Excavations and studies carried out at the site have allowed uncovering layers of history, revealing the way of life and defensive strategies of the communities that inhabited here, offering an authentic glimpse into the distant past of the region.
Castro de Ribas is notable for its complex and robust defensive system, which demonstrates the ingenuity of its builders. The settlement was protected by multiple lines of walls, some of which reached considerable thicknesses, up to 7 meters in several places and even 13 meters in a specific reinforcement zone.
These imposing structures were erected with large granite blocks, dry-stacked, and complemented by a ditch dug into the rock outcrop itself. It is also possible to identify the original entrances of the settlement, where the walls opened to allow controlled access to this proto-urban cluster.
Within the area protected by the walls, visitors can observe the remains of the dwellings that made up the settlement. There is evidence of both circular and rectangular plan constructions, offering a glimpse into the domestic architecture of the time. Also noteworthy is the presence of a lagar, excavated directly into the rock, a clear indication of the daily and productive activities of its ancient inhabitants.
One of the most fascinating elements are the ashlar blocks incorporated into the walls, which display engraved ornamentations, such as circles, spirals, a labyrinth, and an astral figure. These decorative motifs suggest symbolic or artistic value, adding a unique cultural dimension to the visit. The discovery of various archaeological pieces, from ceramics to metal objects and coins, reinforces the cultural and commercial richness of this millennial settlement.
The experience of visiting Castro de Ribas is enriched by its landscape setting. Its elevation provides panoramic views that invite contemplation. The feeling of being atop a spur, surrounded by the characteristic vegetation of pine forest and scrubland, offers an environment of tranquility and connection to nature.
This place allows one to enjoy a vast Trás-os-Montes landscape, characterized by its mountains and valleys, and to understand the strategic importance this elevation held for the communities that chose it to settle and defend themselves throughout the centuries. It is an invitation to feel history and nature in perfect communion.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.584666194595, -7.3997687459459
Coordinates DMS: 41°35'4.8"N 07°23'59.2"W
On-duty Pharmacy Ribas
