Going Back in Time Wandering Serra da Estrela in Portugal

0 View

Share this Video

Publish Date:: July 25, 2024
Category:: HOW TO -
Video License: Standard License
Imported From:: Youtube

Serra da Estrela

The Serra da Estrela region of Portgual is located about a three-hour drive southeast of Porto or about four hours northwest of the capital city of Lisbon.

It’s a scenic, yet curvy road, on highways that will lead visitors to a mountain escape.

Travelers should plan for at least a two-day getaway to truly connect with many of the local historic and natural highlights of the mountain range.

Here are a couple of places tourists should wander to go back in time at the Serra da Estrela.

Castelo Rodrigo

At an altitude of more than 2200 feet in the mountain range lies Castelo Rodrigo. The ruins of Cristóvão de Moura Palace are a main attraction in the area.

Every spring and summer weekend, the palace and surrounding sites come alive with historical characters from Cooperativa Artística da Raia Beirã who explain the history and help visitors connect back in time.

Visitors should also not miss the Church of Our Lady of Rocamador and learn about the strange legend of Marofa.

Cidadelhe

Cidadelhe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in a small village with only about 30 residents. However, it is those 30 people that truly hold the key to unlock much of the hidden history in the area.

The Palio de Cidadelhe was one of these mysterious hidden sites that was only known by the locals. However, today it is thankfully easy to find and connects visitors with the important history and culture of the area.

On the other hand, there are some ancient cave paintings that can only be found through assistance by a guide. You may want to connect with the local town council if you are interested in visiting this hidden doorway to the past.

Marialva

Marialva is another one of those historical villages in Serra da Estrela which are free for tourists to visit and connect to history.

Wandering past the citadel walls and entering the old town through the Porta do Anjo da Guarda will make visitors feel like they were one of the travelers on an early pilgrimage to the site.

Tourists can wander the 17th century city and explore the town hall and jail on approach to the town’s legendary Church of Santiago. Be sure to also not miss the Torre de Menagem and the Capela da Misericórdia, two true treasures of this town’s historic past.

Trancoso

Credit: Vitor Ribeiro

The village of Trancoso and its castle will make travelers feel like they are back in the days of the 13th century when knights and kings roamed the land.

Departing the castle, Trancoso is a place full of history. Visitors will find Poço do Mestre, Casas do Gato Preto, dos Arcos and Quartel-General Beresford, the Church of São Pedro and the Pillory as just a couple of places to walk around and feel the connection to the heritage of Portugal.

Those with Jewish roots will also uncover traces to their religion and traditions all over town. Estimates are that more than 200 of these connections exist all around the village.

What Travelers Need to Know

For most visitors to Portugal, Porto and Lisbon are on their vacation getaway short list. While full of Portuguese history on their own, there is so much more to see just by exploring the mountains and venturing away from city.

On your next trip, consider getting away from the crowds and instead wander the historical sites of the Serra da Estrela. You will definitely feel like you were transported back in line.

The post Going Back in Time Wandering Serra da Estrela in Portugal appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

By: Anthony Timmons
Title: Going Back in Time Wandering Serra da Estrela in Portugal
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/going-back-in-time-wandering-serra-da-estrela-in-portugal/
Published Date: Wed, 24 Jul 2024 15:52:57 +0000

Did you miss our previous article...
https://onebagtravel.club/how-to/luxurious-escapes-combining-botox-treatments-with-californias-finest-spas