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Castle · Elvas, Portalegre
Castelo de Elvas
Medieval castle at the highest point of the old town, built over an Arabic fortress and renovated in subsequent centuries. From the walls the view reaches the city, the forts and the Guadiana plain.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Castelo de Elvas
The Castelo de Elvas occupies the highest point of the old town, on the site of a former Muslim fortress. After the Christian conquest in the 13th century it was rebuilt and expanded, and underwent further renovations in subsequent reigns, such as the tower of the keep from the late Middle Ages. It has been a National Monument since 1906.
The castle was the city's first defensive core and, over time, became enclosed within the larger walls built in the 17th century. For this reason it helps explain the evolution of military architecture: from the medieval fortress with towers and battlements to the low, star-shaped walls of the artillery age.
On the way to the castle is the Largo de Santa Clara, with the pillory, the Arco de Santa Clara—an old gate of the Islamic city—and the Igreja das Domínicas, with an octagonal plan and an interior covered in azulejos. Nearby is also the Igreja de São Pedro, one of the city's oldest churches.
From the top of the castle walls the view reaches the white city, the Aqueduto da Amoreira, the fortes of Santa Luzia and da Graça and the plain down to the Guadiana River and Spain.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 45 minutes for the castle and the walls; an additional 30 minutes for the Largo de Santa Clara and nearby churches.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the low light illuminates the plain. Check opening hours beforehand.
How to get there
It is atop the old town, about a 5-minute walk from the Praça da República, climbing the narrow streets and via the Largo de Santa Clara.
Tip
Climb on foot via the Largo de Santa Clara and visit the Igreja das Domínicas on the way if it is open: the octagonal interior is covered in azulejos.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Castelo de Elvas
Is the castelo de Elvas medieval?
Yes. It was built over a Muslim fortress, rebuilt after the Christian conquest in the 13th century, and renovated in the following centuries.
What is near the castelo?
The Largo de Santa Clara, with the pelourinho and the Arco de Santa Clara, the Igreja das Domínicas, with an octagonal plan, and the Igreja de São Pedro.
Can you climb the castle walls?
Yes, when the castle is open. From the top you can see the city, the forts and the aqueduct.