Portugal Attractions: Bragança Castle (Castelo de Bragança)
Bragança's castle is part of the historic walled citadel (Cidadela) that sits atop a 680-metre-high hill in the town. It is believed that a fort may have stood here in Bragança during Roman and Moorish times though the castle we see today dates back to the 12th century with early 15th century additions by kings João I and Afonso V. It was during the reign of King Fernando I (1345 - 1383) that the Cidadela was first totally fortified.
Bragança Castle is certainly one of the best preserved and most spectacular castles in Portugal.
History
The Torre de Menagem (keep) is 33 metres tall and was occupied by the Portuguese military in to the 20th century. It now houses a Museu Militar (Miltary Museum) of which there are many throughout Portugal. This is one of the best.
On display are an impressive assortment of suits of armour, cannons and swords as well as information on Portugal's colonial wars in Angola and Mozambique with more modern weapons on display such as AK47's.
There are wonderful views out over the surrounding countryside from the top floor of the museum.
The thick walls of the citadel include fifteen towers and three gateways. The towers include the Torre da Princesa (Tower of the Princess) and the entrance gate, the Porta da Vila.
There are a number of bars, cafes and restaurants within the Cidadela's walls which do good business throughout the day and night in the main tourist season in summer. It is slightly cooler up here with more chance of a pleasant breeze on hot summer's nights.
Access & Hours
Castelo de Bragança & Military Museum
Bragança 5300-025, Portugal
Tel: 273 322 378
Opening Hours: 9 am-12 pm; 2 pm-5 pm; Free entry on Fridays from 9 am-12 pm. Closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Also within the Cidadela is the Domus Municipalis, Portugal's oldest town hall, the 16th century-18th century Igreja de Santa Maria and the quirky Iberian Museum of the Mask and the Costume.