Castle of Torres Novas
Santarém
The Castle of Torres Novas is a medieval fortress located in the civil parish of Torres Novas, SantarĂ©m district, Portugal. Positioned dominantly over the town and the Almonda river, it is a key historical and architectural landmark known as the symbol of the town. The castle's origins trace back to a strategic military site with possible Roman and even earlier Celtic roots, controlling important routes between ConĂmbriga and Olisipo (Lisbon). During the Christian Reconquista, the castle was conquered definitively in 1148 by forces under King Afonso Henriques. The fortress underwent significant reconstructions and expansions, notably under King Dinis I and King Fernando in the 14th century, who enlarged the walls and reinforced defenses following conflicts with Castile. The castle also holds cultural significance linked to the veneration of Nossa Senhora do Ă“, with a revered image reportedly found during construction works in the late 12th century. Today, it stands classified as a National Monument, reflecting centuries of Portuguese medieval military architecture and local history.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the castle during spring and early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. The site offers discounts for seniors, students, and groups. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the castle's history and architecture. Contact the local tourism office or visit the official municipal website for updated visiting hours and event schedules.
Interesting facts
- •The castle's location overlooks the Almonda river, part of the historical Tagus Line, a strategic defense area.
- •The image of Nossa Senhora do Ă“, associated with the castle, was reportedly found in a cave during castle construction around 1187.
- •King Fernando commissioned significant expansions of the castle walls completed in 1376, as commemorated by epigraphic inscriptions.
- •The castle was involved in key Reconquista military campaigns and changed hands multiple times during the 12th century.
- •Archaeological evidence suggests a Roman settlement called Vila Cardilium once existed on the site before the medieval castle.
History
The site of Torres Novas has ancient origins, with contested early human occupation attributed to Greeks, Romans, or Celts around 308 BC.
Roman military presence is evidenced by archaeological remains, including the Roman settlement Vila Cardilium.
The medieval castle was established during the Reconquista; initial Christian conquest attempts occurred in 1135 and 1137, but it was permanently taken in 1148 by King Afonso Henriques.
The castle was damaged during Almohad attacks in the late 12th century but was rebuilt and fortified under King Sancho I, who granted the first charter to the town in 1190.
In the 14th century, after conflicts with Castile, King Fernando expanded the castle's walls between 1374 and 1376, enhancing its defensive capabilities.
Since 1910, the castle has been classified as a National Monument, preserving its historical legacy.
Place Guide
Main Castle Walls and Towers14th century
The castle's medieval walls and towers dominate the town skyline, showcasing 14th-century fortification techniques and royal inscriptions commemorating construction under King Fernando.
Nossa Senhora do Ă“ Chapelcirca 1187
A small chapel within the castle grounds dedicated to Nossa Senhora do Ă“, linked to a revered image discovered during the castle's construction in the late 12th century, reflecting the castle's religious and cultural heritage.
Contact
Phone: 249 813 019
