Alcoutim Castle
Alcoutim Castle (Castelo de Alcoutim) in Alcoutim is a 14th century castle which has spectacular views down over the river and a small archaeological museum (Núcleo Museológico de Arqueologia) at the main gates. The museum outlines the history of the castle including the battles that were fought at its walls.
History
Taken from the Moors in the 13th century by Sancho II of Portugal (1209-1248), the castle's defences were strengthened during his reign and again by King Dinis (1261-1325).
Situated on a hill overlooking the Guadiana River, which forms the border with Spain, the rectangular-shaped Alcoutim Castle is constructed from the local schist stone.
Alcoutim Castle was where a peace treaty was signed between King Ferdinand of Portugal and Henry II of Castile in the late 14th century. Located in such a strategic position so close to Spain, the castle's defences were improved by both King John II (1455-1495) and his successor King Manuel (1469-1521) to protect Portugal from its larger neighbour.
The castle was later the scene of conflict during the Portuguese Restoration War of 1640, when Portugal freed itself from rule by the Spanish Hapsburgs.
By the 18th century, the castle was largely abandoned and served for a time as the local slaughterhouse. Restoration work on the castle has been ongoing from the 1960's onwards, with the archaeological museum opening in 2000. The museum has exhibits of archaeological finds in the area from the Neolithic Period onward including Roman ceramics and statues as well as some interesting inscriptions in stone showing board games from the medieval and Islamic periods.
Alcoutim Castle is illuminated after dark and its castle walls are pleasant to stroll offering wonderful views of the Guadiana River and over to the village of Sanlúcar de Guadiana in Spain, which also has its own historic fortress, the restored Castillo de San Marcos. A ferry for foot passengers connects the two towns.
Access
Alcoutim Castle
Largo do Castelo
Alcoutim
Hours: (open every day except January 1, December 24, 25 and 31)
October 1 to March 31: 9 am-5 pm
April 1 to September 30: 9 am-7 pm
Admission: small charge to enter the museum which also covers entry to other museums in Alcoutim.