Torres Novas Castle
The Torres Novas Castle was probably rebuilt at the end of the 12th century by the King Sancho I during the reconquest of the Portuguese territory. It was rebuilt in the 14th century during the reign of King Fernando I, after wars with Castile. It suffered serious damage in the 1755 earthquake and was later occupied by Napoleon's troops during the French invasions.
In Gothic style, it has a shield-shaped plan with eleven square towers rising from the wall and is located at the highest point in the city. Its gardens invite you to take a pleasent walk and its surroundings are the stage for the traditional Medieval Fair - Memórias da História ("History Memories"), which is held every year at the beginning of June and uses the different elements of the castle as a setting for various activities, including the passage known as Porta da Traição ("Betrayal Door"), referring to the "legend" of the existence of an underground tunnel between the castle and the Lapas Caves.
Torres Novas Castle was listed as a National Monument in 1910.
Address
Rua General António César de Vasconcelos Correia
2350-421 Torres Novas
39.4797047614838, -8.540565118409281
Schedule
Every day: summer (April to September) 10.00-13.00 | 14.00-18.00, winter (October to March) 9.00-13.00 and 14.00-17.00, last admission 30 minutes before closing time
Closed: 24th, 25th, 31st December, 1st January, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and 1st May.
Free admission.