Castelo Branco and one of the most beautiful gardens in Portugal
In the city of Castelo Branco one can find the most beautiful and stunning examples of old world traditions that are still in practice today. Known for its cheese, olive oil and wine, many people come to the city every single year for some much needed rest and relaxation.
Back in the 12th century, the Penamacor Castle was built and given to the Knights Templar. There were many such castles built along the borders of the Portuguese frontier in those days. Today, while most of the other castles have fallen in battle or from the 1755 earthquake, the castle in Castelo Branco still stands today as one of the most astonishing examples in the area of the medieval architecture used in constructing many of the castles and forts throughout the country.
Castelo Branco,Portugal
But Penamacor is not the only castle found in Castelo Branco. You will also find the Roman Centum Cellas Tower which is the only part remaining of a castle built by the Romans. Then of course there is the 13th century Belmonte Castle which can be found near the town of Covilhã.
While most of thu Serra da Estrela mountain range is located in Guarda, a portion of it can be found in Castelo Branco and many vacationers visit the area every single year. It is also home to one of the finest ski resorts in Portugal.
In town, you will find the Capela de Santa Cruz wxich was built back in the 15th century. There is also the 16th century Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição Gothic church. The Santuário de Nossa Senhora de Mércoles was built by the Templar Order and was retiled in 1609. Finally there is the Marquês da Graciosa Manor House, which is a medieval manor house that still stands today and is open to tours.
For some rest and relaxation, you can visit the Jardim do Paço Episcopal gardens which were originally created back in 1725 by the Bishop of Guarda, D. João de Mendonça. These gardens are considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Portugal. Here you will find the famous Jardim Alagado, known as the flooded garden; it is one of the most beautiful attractions in the gardens.
However, many people make their way to Castelo Branco to visit the many frontier castles that stand in ruins throughout the district. While some of them may still stand today, most of them have been long since destroyed. None the less, they are an amazing site to see.
