5 Underrated Portugal Castles You Should See
No Portugal trip is complete without visitations to the most beautiful castles and fortresses. However, most of which make the final list are the most prominent and famous ones, while other, more remote ones remain overlooked. So, why not seek some offbeat strongholds to spice up your trip? Let’s look at the top 5 underrated castles in Portugal you should definitely see!
1. Convent of Christ
Located in the historical city of Tomar, near Lisbon, the Convent of Christ, or more simply the Tomar Castle, is one of the most impressive establishments in Central Portugal.
Highly significant historically, the convent was once the residency and headquarters of the Knight Templar. Since its formation in the 12th century, Tomar Castle had to overcome many changes, mainly impacted by the Portuguese royalty and the church. The unforgiving hand of time has left a clear mark. Yet, the fortress is still in wondrous shape, displaying features of Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Rennaissance architectural styles.
Learn about the Knights Templar life in Portugal, and admire the impactful and gorgeous buildings of the Convent of Christ!
2. Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha
Photo by Sacred Wanderings
After learning all you can about the historical Tomar Castle, jump on the Lisbon to Coimbra train to see one of the most spectacular landscapes here. While most travelers head to this area to see the surroundings of the oldest university in Portugal, one particularly imposing establishment remains less seen - the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha.
Built in the 14th century on the left bank of the Mondego River, the convent has been thriving, abandoned, and eventually rebuilt to a new life.
Its flourish peaked between the 14th and 17th centuries when it was residency to hundreds of nuns and church personnel. Unfortunately, after multiple river floodings in 1647 that made living there impossible, the Monastery of Santa Carla-a-Velha was forsaken and left empty. Lucky for you, 200 years after, the ruined church reopened to the public!
3. Cathedral of Evora
The biggest medieval fortress in Portugal, the city of Evora, the cathedral is a stunning display of genius architectural ideas and historical background.
After its initiation in 1186, the cathedral was immediately taken as one of the main temples of the Marian Cult, stopping its construction, which was only completed in 1250. Now, you can see the gradual transition from the Romanesque to Gothic, with Rennaissance and Baroque style additions later on.
A true architectural gem of Portugal, the Cathedral of Evora houses some unique, priceless art pieces. It allows you insight into the collections of some of the most valuable treasures in Portugal. The central portico is undoubtedly the most impressive Portugal Gothic portal, featuring the 14th-century sculptures of the Apostle, created by Master Pero. You will also get to see the stunning central dome, built in the 13th century during the reign of King Dinis.
Evora is a real feast for the eyes, so be quick about adding it to your to-see list!
4. Obidos Castle
The best site to witness the Roman presence in Portugal, the Obidos Castle, simply has to end up on your itinerary as a must-see.
Obidos is exactly what one would imagine when thinking about a fairytale. Maybe not the most lavish and pampered-up one, but definitely one from the old storybooks. It is one of the best-preserved Medieval establishments in the country, despite playing an important role as the residency for royalty.
Dating back to the 8th century, it managed to maintain the unmistakable features of Gothic and Baroque architectural styles, complete with cylindrical watchtowers and arches leading to secret passageways.
5. Moorish Castle
While the castle maintains the reputation of being overlooked by travelers and not having much to offer, this cannot be further from the truth! You can see the most gorgeous landscapes of Sintra from the top of this stunning 8th-century hilltop fortress, not to mention the history lesson this trip will inevitably result in!
The Moorish Castle got its name after the Moors occupated the site and used it as a defensive citadel until 1147, when the King of Portugal finally conquered it. The castle survived complete abandonment and even a dangerous earthquake, yet it remains standing more potent than ever.
The reason we love the Moorish Castle so much is that due to the modest flow of tourists, it is one of the more quiet monuments in Portugal, not to mention the epic sights of Sintra it delivers. Definitely worth a visit!
Wrapping Up
Live out your knight/royalty dreams by visiting these castles in Portugal, and remember to enjoy their towns and surroundings. Have the best time exploring and learning as much as possible about Europe history.
Enjoy your trip!
Other posts we think you might like…
