# Castle of Cristóvão de Moura

- **Country:** Portugal
- **Coordinates:** 40.877374, -6.964265
- **Location Text:** (Castelo Rodrigo, Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo)

The Castle of Castelo Rodrigo, often historically linked to Cristóvão de Moura, is a medieval fortress located in the civil parish of Castelo Rodrigo within the municipality of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, in the Guarda District of Portugal. While local legends suggest an original foundation dating back to the 6th century, the structure as known today was largely established after the village was conquered by Alfonso IX of León in the late 11th or early 12th century. The site takes its name from Count Rodrigo Gonzalez de Girón, who was tasked with its defense. In 1297, the castle and surrounding territory were formally incorporated into the Kingdom of Portugal through the Treaty of Alcañices signed between King Denis of Portugal and King Ferdinand IV of Castile.

During the 14th century, King Denis ordered significant reinforcements to the defensive line, resulting in the construction of a robust walled fence featuring thirteen turrets, a central keep known as the Menagem Tower, a barbican, and protective moats. Architecturally, the fortress is distinguished by its oval configuration which uniquely surrounds the entire village. The remaining walls feature attached constructions on most sides, with notable circular towers on the western and southern flanks, four of which still stand despite having collapsed tops. The site also retains three historic entrances: the Door of the Sun facing east, the Door of the Alverca to the north, and the evocatively named Door of Betrayal.

Today, the Castle of Castelo Rodrigo exists as a picturesque ruin, recognized for its historical importance and designated as a National Monument of Portugal since 1922. Although parts of the square-shaped tower on the north side have crumbled and various tops have collapsed, the site remains a key example of medieval military architecture in the region. It stands as a testament to the border conflicts between Portugal and Castile and serves as a protected heritage site within the network of Historical Villages of Portugal, attracting visitors interested in its strategic past and distinctive oval layout.

![Photo of Castle of Cristóvão de Moura](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/87/Castelo_de_Castelo_Rodrigo_-_Portugal_%288640303247%29.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_of_Castelo_Rodrigo (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)