Monsaraz Collage

Exterior Wall of Monsaraz

March 9th, 2021

Yesterday we met the imposing watchtower of Monsaraz, Portugal. Today we’re on a walking tour through the narrow streets and into the castle. Just a reminder — click on any photo to view it larger, in a carousel.

This tidy little town enjoys a fabulous panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, while the interior is dotted with blooming flowers and pottery stores. Lots of architectural details catch the eye — stone streets, reconstructed walls, corner windows, mysterious doorways and an occasional lamp jutting from a high wall. Here also you can see the home exterior in context from my post two days ago.

Entrance to Monsaraz

#10 Monsaraz

View from Monsaraz

Interior Monsaraz

Watchtower of Monsaraz Castle

Pottery store

Interior Monsaraz

Mystery door

Pottery store

Entrance to Monsaraz

Home of Monsaraz

Interior Monsaraz

Corner view

Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Lagoa

At the south end of of town, an arched opening leads inside Monsaraz castle, built in the 1600s. It may be less of a castle, more of an amphitheater with a center arena, rows of seating, high walkways and an incredible view to the Alqueva Reservoir. Just over the east wall, the cemetery of Monsaraz stretches in a white line below.

Monsaraz Castle

Monsaraz Castle Entrance

Monsaraz Castle

Monsaraz town from the castle

View of Alqueva reservoir

Monsaraz Castle

Monsaraz Cemetery

Monsaraz makes a wonderful stop if you’re cruising through Portugal’s countryside, as we were when we stopped here on a whim in May of 2017. Nearly every town of the Alentejo has a castle or ruin or historic site to see. So much to explore!

Road trip anyone?

More tomorrow,
Kelly

Post of the Day: Adding a bit of light to the darkness as we get through the pandemic together. This series features travel photos from my archives, shared with you while staying close to home.