Castelo de Guimaraes (Castle of Guimaraes), Guimaraes (must see)

The Castle of Guimaraes, standing proudly atop the Broad Hill, serves as an emblematic testament to the rich tapestry of legend, poetry, and heroism that envelops the early chapters of Portuguese history. In the annals of circa 968, Mumadona, the Countess of Galicia, commissioned the construction of a castle on this strategic site. The motivation behind this endeavor was to provide refuge for the local population against the relentless onslaughts by Viking marauders from the north and Muslim invaders launching raids from the territories they occupied to the south.

The turning point in the castle's history occurred when Count Henry, assuming the governance of the province known as Portucalense from his father-in-law, Alfonso VI of León, ordered the construction of a more substantial and fortified structure. This marked the inception of the formidable defensive complex that stands today.

The castle is dominated by a square keep that stands proudly between four towers, each steadfastly guarding a corner of the fortress walls. The architectural prowess of this medieval stronghold is evident in its robust construction and strategic layout, showcasing the military acumen of its builders.

While not explicitly documented, it is widely believed that the building nestled against the inner part of the northern wall served as the residence of Count Henry. This site is speculated to be the birthplace of his son, Afonso Henriques, who went on to become the first King of Portugal.