Top 9 Castles around Bencatel

Castelo de Redondo is a medieval fortress built in the 13th century by order of King D. Dinis. The castle played a crucial defensive role in the region. Although today, the only things that remain are the perimeter walls, with an irregular perimeter and several quadrangular towers, and part of the old Torre de Menagem (Keep).

Vila Viçosa is known as the "Marble City" and often referred to as the "Royal City." It is located in the heart of the Alentejo region. This charming town is known for its magnificent palaces, marble production, and rich history. Vila Viçosa is a place to relax and discover the region's cultural treasures. A real highlight of Vila Viçosa is the Paço Ducal, the Ducal Palace. This magnificent 16th-century palace was once the residence of the Dukes of Bragança and is a true highlight of Portuguese Renaissance architecture. The palace is surrounded by extensive gardens and houses an impressive collection of works of art, furniture, and historical artifacts. Visitors can explore the palace's magnificent interiors and opulent furnishings, giving them a glimpse into the lives of Portuguese noble families. The Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição is one of the city's most important churches and a truly impressive building. Also known as the "Marble Sanctuary," the church was built from Vila Viçosa's famous marble. It is particularly noted for its elaborate altarpieces and richly decorated interiors. The church is an important place of pilgrimage and a place for reflection and prayer. Vila Viçosa also has a Carriage Museum, the Museu Nacional dos Coches. The museum houses one of the most important collections of historic carriages and coaches in Portugal. The exhibition features magnificent state carriages, hunting carriages, and ceremonial coaches. This provides a wonderful insight into the history and culture of royal journeys and processions. The old town of Vila Viçosa is characterized by narrow, cobblestone streets and white houses with flower-decorated balconies.

The municipality is known for its significant historical and cultural heritage, which includes the Alandroal Castle (its most emblematic monument), historic churches and Roman remains. Alandroal is also part of the Alentejo of wine, with quality wine production. You can stop for a break and enjoy its tranquility and the authenticity of its traditions.

Castelo de Redondo is a medieval fortress built in the 13th century by order of King D. Dinis. The castle played a crucial defensive role in the region. Although today, the only things that remain are the perimeter walls, with an irregular perimeter and several quadrangular towers, and part of the old Torre de Menagem (Keep).

Among the original entrances to the fortress, the western gate, known as the Porta de Olivenza, stands out. This monumental, west-facing gate was one of the main entrances to the walled village. Its strategic location was crucial for communication and defense. The Olivenza Gate is a testament to the splendor of the military engineering of the time, robust and difficult to cross, with defensive elements that ensured the security of the entrances and exits, as well as the fortress itself.

In 1250, a foral (charter) attributed to King D. Afonso III was issued to Redondo. At the same time, the king ordered the construction of a castle over the ruins of the ancient Roman fortress. The castle was part of the northern Alentejo fortifications restructured by King D. Dinis that were donated to members of the nobility during the late medieval epoch, representing significant alterations during the Manueline era. By order of King D. Dinis, in 1312, the castle was reconstructed, during the same epoch as the erection of the keep tower and the fortification wall and towers. On 27 April 1318, the foral was reconfirmed by King D. Dinis. In 1418, King D. John conceded privileges to the castle and obligated that travellers between Alandroal and Vila Viçosa pass through the settlement, as a way of expanding commercial activities in the town.

Castelo de Tereno offers a great view over the picturesque town and the surrounding landscape from the wall (actually not to be climbed = at your own risk...). Admission free (the Castelo doesn't have much else to offer apart from its walls. The old part of the village between the Castelo and the church is exceptionally pretty and definitely worth the steep climb!