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Fortresses of the Tagus
Itinerary: Abrantes | Vila Nova da Barquinha | Almourol Castle
Discover the stories and secrets of the imposing Tagus River fortresses on a captivating journey that combines history, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable cultural moments. From the panoramic views of Abrantes to the mystical island of Almourol Castle, this experience reveals the strategic and symbolic role of the Tagus River in the defense of Portugal throughout the centuries.
PROGRAM:
Morning: Abrantes
Visit to Abrantes Castle : Abrantes Castle , with medieval origins, offers a panoramic view over the city and the Tagus River . Visit the Keep, commissioned by King Dinis in 1300, and the Governors' Palace, or Palace of the Mayors , which is believed to have been built in the 15th century by the Mayor of Abrantes, Diogo Fernandes de Almeida, and the Church of Santa Maria do Castelo, recently restored and which serves as the funerary pantheon of the Almeida family, Counts of Abrantes.
Descent to the city's historic center via Outeiro de São Pedro , where King John I of Portugal and Nuno Álvares Pereira camped with their troops before the victorious Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. Walking tour through the city's historic center. Highlights include the Church of São Vicente, the Convent of Nossa Senhora da Esperança , and the Chapel of Sant'Ana .
Guided tour of the Iberian Museum of Art and Archaeology , installed after the renovation of the Convent of São Domingos, where it is possible to appreciate its collection of around five thousand pieces collected in the former territory of Lusitania.
Afternoon: Vila Nova da Barquinha | Almourol Castle
Visit to Almourol Castle : Almourol Castle is one of the most famous and mysterious castles in Portugal, located on a small island in the Tagus River . Built by the Templars in the 12th century, the castle has a unique atmosphere, surrounded by the waters of the Tagus. The boat trip to the castle is a delightful experience, and the site offers an excellent opportunity to understand the medieval history of the region and the symbolism of the Templars. The views of the castle and the river are breathtaking.
Visit to the Templar Interpretation Centre in Almourol.
Located in the village, this space offers a detailed perspective on the history of the Knights Templar in Portugal, highlighting the role of Almourol Castle and the strategic importance of the region during the Middle Ages.
Atalaia Church: One of the most beautiful examples of Renaissance architecture in Portugal, its interior stands out for its polychrome tiles in shades of yellow and blue, dating from the 17th century, which exhibit remarkable artistic value.
End of the tour.
Why participate in this tour:
Historical and natural theme : The theme of castles and the Tagus River offers an interesting combination of medieval history, military architecture, and stunning natural landscapes.
Short distances : The locations are close to each other, making the itinerary easy to cover in a single day.
A unique experience at Almourol Castle : The boat trip to the castle makes the visit even more memorable, adding a special touch to the tour.
This itinerary offers a journey through time along the fortresses and rivers of the Tagus, with a strong connection to medieval history and the strategic importance of the region.
DATE: May 11, 2025
The prices shown include:
Tourist bus tour
1 meal with a full menu
tour guide
Local guides for visits and activities.
All tickets are paid.
Liability and personal accident insurance
PLACES ON THE BUS:
Seats on the bus are pre-assigned based on the order of boarding and the seniority of the sign.
PACE: Medium
To participate in this itinerary, you must:
Feel comfortable with several days of visits and an itinerary that alternates between bus journeys and short walks in the historical centers of the places visited.
To be able to keep up with a group at an average walking pace on sometimes uneven terrain and occasional stairs.
Being able to follow a moderate-paced program, which may involve getting up early for several days and only arriving at the hotel at the end of the day to have dinner and rest.
Feel comfortable following a guide and respecting all instructions given.
Tolerate some temperature changes and unstable weather.
VISITS INCLUDED:
Abrantes Castle | Keep | Governors'/Mayors' Palace | Church of Santa Maria do Castelo | São Pedro Hill | Church of São Vicente | Convent of Nossa Senhora da Esperança | Chapel of Sant'Ana | Iberian Museum of Art and Archaeology | Almourol Castle | Almourol Templar Interpretation Centre | Atalaia Church
