Discover the history of Coimbra on a guided tour of the city's castles. Learn about the city's military fortresses and the role they played in the conquest of the Iberian Peninsula. During the ascendancy of D. Afonso Henriques, he focused heavily on in the protection of the city, as it was essential for the conquest of the territory. At this time they were created a set of buildings and military fortresses that made it possible to fill the gap security and protect the city. At this time, the first king D. Afonso Henriques was fighting against Moors and Muslims and other communities that inhabited the Iberian Peninsula, through the conquest of kingdom. This network of castles was fundamental not only to protect the city of Coimbra, which at the time it was the place where the court was established, but also to guarantee the stability necessary for the continuation of the conquest of the south.
Pickup included
Our first stop will be at Montemor-o-Velho Castle, the first castle in Portugal. We will learn about its history, the connection to our first King, D. Afonso Henriques, the founder of the country. We will walk through centuries-old walls and discover some remarkable episodes of history that took place in this beautiful and well-preserved castle.
Then we will visit the emblematic castle of Soure. Unique, both for its location and for its connection to the Knights Templar who settled here for the first time in Portugal. We will also visit the castle's interpretation center and its surrounding areas.
Our next stop will be at the majestic castle of Penela, a castle whose origin dates back to an ancient Roman fort, and which was rebuilt and used by D. Afonso Henriques as a military instrument of defense, integrating the defensive line of the Mondego Castles. The castle was built entirely under stone, and is one of the most beautiful examples of medieval architecture at the time of its construction. He will get to know the history, legends, discover some necropolys and see some models of medieval constructions.
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
We will contact you to know winch place suits you better as a pick up point.