Penedono Travel Guide

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In the center and highest part of Penedono stands its imposing castle -- small in terms of area relative to most castles, but impressive in height, design and build, as well as importance in the Portugal's early history. Its unique form has remained unchanged all these centuries, and has kept its medieval architectural design. The castle as it is at present is a result of a reconstruction in the 14th century, but its basic structure goes back many centures past.

In 998 AD, a reconstruction was already undertaken as part of the Reconquest (when the Christians were trying to conquer back the Iberian Peninsula from the Arabs), when it was necessary to establish Christian communities here. Penedono was a crucial fort and castle as it stood on the frontier, and it exchanged hands between occupiers many times. The definitive reconquest of Penedono took place in the 11th century through Fernando Magno, king of Leon. With the formation of the young country, Penedono passed into the hands of the new sovereign, Dom Alfonso II, in 1190.

The castle is only 70m in area, has an irregular hexagonal shape, the crenellations are pyramidal shaped (rather than flat, which is the usual case), and made of granite and schist rock. There is not much to see inside the castle, but the views from the parapet, of the countryside around is great. To enter the door is a bit tricky as is not a straightforward way, the passage to it is over a few huge rocks, so negotiating the entrance for the elderly or handicapped might be difficult. Just at the foot of the castle is the town's tall and impressive pillory whose height and more intricate design attest to the importance of Penedono in the medieval ages. To its left is the tourist information center.

The castle is unique one of the most beautiful castles in Portugal. It is classified as a National Monument.