Castle of Almourol, Constância

Perched on a small islet in the middle of the Tagus River, the Castle of Almourol is one of the most distinctive medieval military monuments to be found in Portugal. Located in the city of Constância, this enigmatic castle is a testament to the Knights Templar's influence in the region and a must-see for any history enthusiast.

The castle's origins date back to the 12th century, during the Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula. It was built under the orders of Gualdim Pais, the provincial master of the Templars in Portugal. The strategic location of the castle, accessible only by boat, made it an important point of defense during the battles between Christians and Moors.

Today, the Castle of Almourol stands as a well-preserved example of the Templar architecture and military fortifications. Visitors can explore its imposing towers, crenelated walls, and the compact keep that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Although much of the castle's interior structure has not survived the test of time, the exterior walls and the sense of history that pervades the site more than make up for it.

To reach the castle, tourists can take a short boat trip from the riverbank, which adds to the charm and experience of visiting this historical gem. The boat service operates regularly, and the crossing takes just a few minutes.