Almourol Castle, in Portugal

Name Origin:

• The name “Almourol” likely derives from the Arabic Al-morolan (“high stone”). Variations include Almoriol, Almorol, Almourel, and Almuriel. Other theories connect it to terms like “Moron” or “Muriella.”

Location:

• Situated on a small granite islet in the middle course of the Tagus River (Rio Tejo), the castle is located in Praia do Ribatejo, Vila Nova da Barquinha, Santarém District, Portugal.
• Often attributed to Tancos, the nearest town, due to visibility from there.

Construction Date:

• Originally constructed before 1129, with significant reconstruction by the Templars in 1171 under Gualdim Pais.

Architectural Style:

• The castle is an example of Templar military architecture, featuring a quadrangular layout, high walls with nine circular towers, and a central keep (torre de menagem).
• Built in granite and mortar masonry, the structure showcases elements from Roman to medieval times, with modern decorative elements added during the 19th-century Romanticism movement.

Historical Significance:

• Pre-Portuguese Era: Before the Portuguese conquest, there were likely Moorish fortifications or a castle on the site, part of the Muslim control in the region.
• Conquered by Portuguese forces in 1129 during the Christian Reconquest, Almourol became a Templar stronghold. It controlled trade routes and protected Portuguese territories between the Mondego and Tagus rivers.
• After the dissolution of the Templars in 1311, the castle was incorporated into the Order of Christ.

Legends and Mysteries:

• • D. Ramiro’s Tragedy: A Christian knight who killed two Moorish women and later captured a Moorish youth. The prisoner poisoned the knight’s wife, but fell in love with his daughter, escaping with her. The legend claims the couple’s spirits are seen atop the tower on St. John’s Night.
  • The Emir and His Daughter: An Arab lord and his daughter leaped from the castle walls into the Tagus River, preferring death over capture by a Christian knight who betrayed them.
  • Palmeirim’s Adventure: In literature, the giant Almourol is a character guarding a princess in the castle, leading to legendary duels and victories by noble knights.

Topography:

• Perched on a granite outcrop, 18 meters above water level, the island is about 310 meters long and 75 meters wide, making the castle’s positioning highly defensible and visually striking.

Strategic Role:

• During the Reconquista, the castle was part of the “Linha do Tejo,” a defensive line protecting the newly-formed Portuguese kingdom from southern incursions.

Evolution Over Time:

• Damaged in the 1755 earthquake and later restored during the 19th-century Romantic movement, which added crenellations and battlements to enhance its medieval appearance.
• Adapted to be used as the Official Residence of the Portuguese Republic during the Estado Novo regime in the 20th century, where significant official events took place.
• Used by the Portuguese army under the command of the Engineering School of Tancos.

Cultural Status:

• Declared a National Monument in 1910.
• One of the 21 finalists for the “7 Wonders of Portugal” in 2007.
• In 2013, it was named “Star of the Médio Tejo” for its historical significance.

Restoration and Tourism:

• Extensive restorations took place in 2013-2015, focusing on structural repairs and creating a museum exhibit in the keep.
• Further improvements in 2018 included enhancing access and creating a Templar Interpretation Center.
• A popular tourist site, it can be visited by boat tours from Tancos or Arripiado, allowing visitors to experience the scenic beauty of the Tagus River and the castle’s historical ambiance.

Recent Developments:

• Integrated into the Tejo Panoramic Trail in 2022, a 10.5-kilometer trail that can be walked or cycled, providing visitors with stunning views of the Tagus River and the surrounding cultural landmarks.