Guimaraes

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Shortened history of the castle:

Guimaraes castle is probably the best known and mythical in Portugal as it represents the birth of the nation. In fact it was here that Afonso Henriques was born and that's also where he planned the wars for the independence of the Portugal province during the 12th century, becoming the first Portuguese king.

The origins of the Guimaraes castle can be traced back to 968, when the Countess of Galicia, D. Mumadona Dias, ordered the construction of a fortification to defend the populations and the existing monastery against the raids of the Norman / Vikings hordes from the coast and the Moors (Arabs) from the south. During the 11th century, Guimaraes had its defensive structure extensively enhanced when Count Henrique assumed the government of the province from King Alfonso VI of Leon.

In 1129, Afonso Henriques proclaimed the independence of Portugal and several battles followed with Spain until the 14th century due to the pretensions of Spain to dominate the Portuguese kingdom.

With the advent of the artillery, Guimaraes castle became outdated and was abandoned for several centuries. It was used as a prison in the 16th, 17th and 18th century. In a total state of ruin, it was recovered during the 1930’s to become the symbol of nationality.

Opening times and additionnal information:

Tuesday to Sunday : 9.30am to 12 and 2pm to 5.30pm
Free entrance