Prior to Portugal ...
The oldest documentary reference dates back to 960. But it can be even earlier than that, once parallel rows were found the in the base structure, typical of Arabic constructions, showing a first construction.
It is a small castle with the features of polygonal a castellated house, forming an irregular hexagon. It is built about 930m high upon a lot of cyclopean granite outcrops; it circumference is about 70m and has turrets in the corners, fitted with boulders and flanking the single access in a broken arc. It still has the tank, a patrol path and typical benches called "conversadeiras" in its interior, which indicate the existence of an intermediate floor.
This unusual example of Gothic military architecture is associated with the mythical figure of the "Magriço", Álvaro Gonçalves Coutinho, born in Penedono, immortalized by Camões in his epic work "The Lusíadas", which narrates the feats and achievements of the Twelve of England.
The castle was listed as a National Monument on June 16, 1910.
Opening hours (if the Tourism Office is operating): From November to February - from 9 am to 5 pm; From March to June and September to October - from 9 am to 6 pm; July and August - from 9 am to 7 pm
Location: Penedono
