One reason why travelers love visiting Portugal is because it can transport them back in time and history, to the days when medieval knights roamed the country and castles were always on the lookout for plunderers.
Wandering through the area around the Serra da Estrela is a perfect place for tourists to visit and connect with the legendary history of the Portuguese Republic.
Serra da Estrela
The Serra da Estrela region of Portgual is located about three hours’ drive southeast of Porto or about four hours northwest of the capital Lisbon.
It’s a scenic, yet winding road, on highways that lead visitors to a mountain escape.
Travelers should plan at least a two-day getaway to really connect with many of the mountain range’s local historical and natural highlights.
Here are a few places tourists should wander to to go back in time in the Serra da Estrela.
Castelo Rodrigo
Castelo Rodrigo is located at an altitude of over 700 meters in the mountain range. The ruins of the Cristóvão de Moura Palace are a major attraction in the area.
Every spring and summer weekend, the palace and surrounding sites come alive with historical characters from Cooperativa Artística da Raia Beirã who explain the history and help visitors go back in time.
Visitors also shouldn’t miss the Church of Our Lady of Rocamador and learn about the strange legend of Marofa.
Cidadelhe
Cidadelhe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in a small village with only about 30 inhabitants. However, it is those thirty people who really hold the key to unlocking much of the area’s hidden history.
The Palio de Cidadelhe was one of these mysterious hidden places known only to locals. Today, however, it is fortunately easy to find visitors and connect them with the area’s important history and culture.
On the other hand, there are some ancient cave paintings that can only be found with the help of a guide. You may want to contact your local council if you are interested in visiting this hidden door to the past.
Marialva
Marialva is another one of those historic villages in Serra da Estrela that are freely accessible to tourists and connect with history.
Walking along the citadel walls and entering the old town through the Porta do Anjo da Guarda, visitors will feel as if they were one of the travelers on an early pilgrimage to the site.
Tourists can wander through the 17th-century city and explore the town hall and prison as they approach the legendary Church of Santiago. Don’t miss the Torre de Menagem and the Capela da Misericórdia, two true treasures from the historical past of this city.
Trancoso
The village of Trancoso and its castle will make travelers feel like they are back in the days of the 13th century, when knights and kings roamed the land.
Leaving the castle, Trancoso is a place full of history. Visitors will find Poço do Mestre, Casas do Gato Preto, dos Arcos and Quartel-General Beresford, the Church of São Pedro and the Pillory as just a few places to walk around and feel the connection to Portugal’s heritage.
Those with Jewish roots will also find traces of their religion and traditions throughout the city. It is estimated that there are more than 200 of these connections spread throughout the village.
What travelers need to know
For most visitors to Portugal, Porto and Lisbon are on the shortlist of their holiday destinations. Although full of Portuguese history in themselves, there is so much more to see by exploring the mountains and getting out of the city.
On your next trip, consider getting away from the crowds and wandering the historic sites of the Serra da Estrela instead. You will definitely feel like you are being transported back into line.
