Alter do Chão Castle

Alter do Chão Castle is a medieval stronghold classified as a national monument. The monument can be visited in the historic city center. It was built on the order of King Alfonso II in 1216. The fortress was placed on a strategic place for the defense of the area, on a 270 meter high hill.

A well-preserved medieval fortress is one of the region's greatest tourist attractions. The area inhabited since the pre-Romanesque times was occupied by Portuguese forces in the second decade of the thirteenth century. Built on a square plan, the fortress has slate and granite walls, reinforced with six towers, with a 44-meter watchtower.

A visit to the castle of Alter do Chão is an interesting history lesson for anyone who would like to face a steep staircase, climb the main tower and admire the beautiful view of the countryside. Many permanent historical and cultural exhibitions are currently organized among the medieval walls.