Castle of Marvão

Marvão is a small village located in Northern Alentejo Region, close to the spanish frontier, is one of the amazing fortified villages in Portugal. One of the main attractions in this village is the Castle of Marvão, that is inserted in the Natural Park of São Mamede. Getting the name from a Islamic Horseman called Ibn Maruánthis, it was later conquered by the Christians in the 13th century, which substantially improved the fortifications. The high altitude of this castle offers visitors a wide view over the mountain landscape.

Which make the experience unique is walking throught the narrow and cobblestones streets full of small white houses, where you can enjoy the silence and relax. Between the castle and the village you' ll find a beautiful garden, that invites you to read a good book.

If you want to know all the history of the fortress, you must visit the Military Museum. As larger buildings, you have: the Santa Maria Church from the 13th/14th centuries (foundation), that is now the Municipality Museum; the Santiago Church from the 14th century; the Holy Spirit Chapel (1573); the Ancient Town Hall , Manuelin Style with a Prison, the Clock Tower and the Ancient Court and the Pillory from the 16th century.

There you also have souvenirs shops, where you can find local products such as: pottery, licors, bijou, cork products, jams, ...

If you decide to overnight there, i suggest you the Pousada Santa Maria that has a fantastic view from the living room and some rooms.

You can find more information about the place itself our about the Region at the Tourism Office, where a very nice lady welcomes you.

A little advice: don't visit the Castle between May and June, otherwise you'll be "attacked" by this insects .