Castle of Monsaraz
The Castle of Monsaraz (Castelo de Monsaraz) is a picturesque castle perched on the highest point in the walled village of Monsaraz in the Alto Alentejo region.
The castle dominates the small village of less than 800 inhabitants from its position on the hill.
History
The area was under the control of the Moors during the Islamic period of Portugal's history before it was stormed by the legendary Portuguese warrior Geraldo Sem Pavor (Gerald the Fearless) in 1167. This was part of the campaign that also saw the capture of the Castle of Evoramonte (Castelo de Evoramonte).
It was then given to the Knights Templar and later the Order of Christ to garrison. The castle became one of a series of forts kept by King Dinis (1261-1325) to protect the border with Castile.
As well as the castle, further protection is afforded by the city walls. The main entrance to the village is through Porta da Vila, reinforced by two towers. Another gate, the Porta d'Evora, is also guarded by a rectangular tower.
During the Portuguese Restoration War (Guerra da Restauração) in the mid-17th century the castle's defences were strengthened.
By the next century as the area's administration moved west to the town of Reguengos de Monsaraz, the castle began to fall into disrepair. It was declared a National Monument in 1946 and has been subsequently restored.
As is usual with castles in Portugal there are amazing views from the top as far as Lake Alqueva and even Spain in the distance.
Access & Hours
Monsaraz Castle
Largo do Castelo
Monsaraz 7200-175
Tel: 963 702 392
Admission: no charge to enter the castle.
Monsaraz is within easy reach of both Evora and Estremoz by car in the Alentejo region of Portugal.
Recommended places to stay in and around Monsaraz include the five-star estate and spa São Lourenço do Barrocal. This luxurious property includes a bar lounge, a restaurant, a pool bar and fitness center.
Also recommended are the four-star Vila Planicie near Fonte do Telheiro, the Sossego da Carminho holiday home, the Monte Alerta Turismo Rural, complete with meditation garden and organic orchard and the Montimerso Skyscape Country House with garden, an outdoor swimming pool and restaurant.
See here for a complete listing of hotels in Monsaraz.
