Nestled in the interior of Portugal lies some of Europe’s best-kept secrets: the Historical Villages of Portugal . We visited Castelo Novo, Belmonte, Sortelha, Trancoso and Castelo Rodrigo. On a recent press tour with the Center of Portugal: we discovered quaint settlements offering a step back in time.

The cobblestone streets whisper tales of medieval times, fortified castles stand guard against the ages, and charming locals welcome visitors with warm hospitality. If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, here’s why these historical villages deserve a top spot on your itinerary.

The HISTORICAL VILLAGES of PORTUGAL are 1 destination that are in fact 12. We visited 5 of the 12. Step back in time in Portugal; a new discovery awaits you at each one!

Castelo Novo: Where Time Stands Still

Can you imagine strolling through streets that have seen centuries pass by? Castelo Novo, located in the foothills of Serra da Gardunha, offers just that. This picturesque village boasts well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic Clock Tower and the Church of S?o Pedro.

Your senses will be flooded by contrast and color. The walls of this village have over 800 years of history to discover.

Village Centre and Pillory

For history buffs, a visit to the Castelo Novo Museum Centre provides insights into local traditions and rural life. As we wandered through the winding streets of the village, we discovered details that tell the stories of past inhabitants.

With the help of our amazing tour guide Marta, we visited the most notable locations in Castelo Novo:

• The Castle
• Two fountains: The Bica and The D. Jo?o Fountain
• The manor houses
• The old gallows
• Village center and museum.

The steep short climb up to the castle was well worth it! Up top you will see panoramic views and centuries old architecture. I loved the climb, it definitely feels like you are on top of the world!

If you are an art buff and want to explore creativity; visit the Manuela Justino Gallery. This is the headquarters of the Creative Stories Project- where you can listen to a story, or create your own characters. School children often visit here to do just that. In this Gallery you will discover one of the most original artists of the 20th century.

In Castelo Novo…cool off and take a swim in a mountain fresh-water swimming hole. I wish we had time to jump in. The kids were having so much fun! The quality of life enjoyed by the residents of these small towns in Portugal, is something to be desired.

Belmonte: A Cultural Crossroads

Perched atop a hill in the Beira Baixa region Belmonte is more than just a village; it’s a cultural mosaic. Known for its Jewish heritage, Belmonte is home to one of Portugal’s oldest Jewish communities.

The best way to explore the historical gems of Belmonte is on a guided tour with a local expert. Our guide Duarte took us on an exciting journey of living history in Belmonte! Not to be missed:

• The Castle- the Manueline Window offers stunning views the Serra da Estrela
• The Discoveries Museum
• The Jewish Museum
• The Old Belmonte Jewry with Synagogue
• Santiago Church
• Cabrais Pantheon

Belmonte with it’s strong Jewish presence, is a town where Hebrew culture and traditions have endured since the early 16th century. Exploring the history and culture of this amazing village was extra-ordinary to say the least!

I was overcome with empathy upon learning the details of the Portuguese Inquistion- a sad time in infamy. We viewed several artifacts and imagery from this period in history. I highly recommend a tour of the Jewish Museum and the Discoveries Museum.

Not to be missed : CASTELO DE BELMONTE- the amazing castle depicting life during medieval times! We enjoyed moments of history along with ones of jovial laughs! As I mentioned earlier, our tour guide Duarte really made history come to life!

Beyond its cultural significance, Belmonte captivates with its panoramic views of the Cova da Beira valley and the majestic Serra da Estrela mountains.

The Santiago Church was also a beautiful site to behold with it’s stunning architecture. Here you see the Manueline Window theme once again. If you followed our first trip to the Center of Portugal in June 23; we mentioned this same window design in our post about the monasteries.

Sortelha: The Fortress in Stone

Step into a medieval fortress frozen in time at Sortelha. Encircled by formidable walls, this village perched on a granite outcrop exudes an aura of ancient grandeur. Wander through narrow alleys lined with stone houses adorned with Gothic doorways and Manueline windows.

Sortelha is located on top of a hill. Enjoy incredible views with a boulder-strewn landscape. If you want to re-live authentic Medieval times, this is the place to do it! The castle and citadel are contained within the historic stone walls. We had lots of fun exploring this village and finding different gates and entries to the village.

If you are brave, climb atop the castle walls and go for a short walk. We saw a few tourists scaling the walls for a trip around.

The centerpiece of Sortelha is its 13th-century castle, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside…a perfect spot for capturing Instagram-worthy snapshots.

For a taste of local flavor, indulge in delicious cuisine at the newest village attraction: Cardo Taberna & Mercearia. Step back in time at this restaurant that preserves the centuries old charm of this castle village!

At CARDO you will enjoy the best in authentic Portuguese cuisine and hospitality! Luisa and Rodrigo served us a delicious assortment: tapas, chorizo sausage, olives, bread w/olive oil and seasoned beef. This culinary experience is a MUST DO!

Fantastic tastes, laughter, great conversation and small town charm all around! What I love most: all the ingredients and products are locally sourced . I loved hearing about Luisa’s creative plans to make this a ” go-to” village in the Center of Portugal.

How about these monster size lemons? Our guide Duarte, bought us one in Sortelha. Portugal enjoys mild temperatures year round, thus it has the perfect environment for growing citrus fruits! Lemons are considered a a gesture of warmth and welcome in the Portuguese culture.

Trancoso: Where History Meets Modernity

Trancoso seamlessly blends historical charm with contemporary vibrancy. Its well-preserved medieval center, characterized by narrow streets and fortified walls, transports visitors back to the Middle Ages. Explore the S?o Bartolomeu Church and the 12 century castle, where tales of battles and conquests come alive.

We toured the inside of the walls of the castle and observed an underground well, preserved for many centuries. If you would like to go down under and see it, you may do so.

Trancoso also surprises with its lively cultural scene, including festivals celebrating local gastronomy and music. Unwind with a glass of D?o wine and a terrace cafe and savor the ambiance of this timeless village.

If you are in town during lunch, do make a stop at S. Marcos Restaurant. The food is an experience in authentic Portuguese cuisine, so yummy!

While visiting Trancoso, you will find the most majestic house in town: The Casa do Gato Predo- ” The Black Cat House.” Since I’m a big cat lover, I was thrilled the tour guide Carla, show us this house!

More Notable Spots Visited:

• The Jewish Rout
• Isaac Cardoso Jewish Interpretation Centre
• The El Rai, Carvalho and Predo Doors
• The Jewry

This town is influenced strongly by its ancient Jewish Presence. The community, had extra-ordinary economic and social growth throughout the Middle Ages. The Trancoso Fair was a driving force for this growth.

During the 15th century, the Jewish population was over 500 people. Eventually this lead the community to settle outside of Jewry limits.

Interesting fact: signs of Hebrew habits still remain in Trancoso. ( in Belmonte too!) Some of the doors still have a Mezuzah hanging to the right of the doorpost.

Castelo Rodrigo: A Tapestry of Heritage

Tourism

Situated on a hill overlooking the fertile plains of the Douro River, Castelo Rodrigo is a tapestry woven with layers of history. Wander through its labyrinthine streets lined with whitewashed houses adorned with blue and yellow trimmings and colorful flower pots. Warm and gracious people are there to welcome you.

While in Castelo Rodrigo, we experienced two amazing tours hosted by the owners of the Cisterna Guest House. Unfortunately our schedule did not allow a tour of the castle.

If you visit, take time to explore the ruins of the medieval castle and 16th century pillory. These are symbols of the village’s strategic importance throughout history.

In Castelo Rodrigo is the Cisterna Guest House. It is a beautiful stay with historical vibes in the center of the village. This is a unique lodging experience I won’t soon forget! The hosts are biologists and are warmly sharing the history and hospitality of the village, to all who enter.

Interesting fact: the pool for guests at Casa da Cisterna is an old cistern and monument which served as a reservoir for this village, during ancient times. Experiencing modern conveniences embedded with history was truly a treat!

The Village of Castelo Rodrigo is located in a unique region near other Historic Villages. This town is rich in landscapes, history and nature such as: Douro International Park and the Faia Brava Reserve.

It is also a gateway to visiting UNESCO Sites such as: Palaeolithic Art of the Coa Valley and the vineyards of Alto Douro Vinhateiro, Salamanca and Cidade Rodrigo.

Why Visit These Timeless Treasures?

Beyond their historical significance, these villages offer a glimpse into authentic Portuguese life. Unlike bustling cities, they provide a tranquil escape into rural landscapes dotted with olive groves, vineyards, and almond orchards. Each village boasts unique cultural traditions, from artisan crafts to culinary specialties, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in local experiences.

Practical Tips for Your Visit
When planning your trip to Portugal’s historical villages, consider these tips:

• Transportation: Renting a car is ideal for exploring remote villages.
• Accommodation: Choose from charming guesthouses or historic pousadas for an authentic stay.
• Timing: Summer is the best time to visit and during local festivals for a taste of traditional celebrations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Historical Villages of Portugal are not just places frozen in time; they are living testaments to the country’s rich heritage and cultural diversity. Whether you’re captivated by medieval castles, intrigued by Jewish history, or simply seeking tranquility amidst breathtaking landscapes, these villages promise an unforgettable journey. Embrace the charm, savor the flavors, and make memories that will last a lifetime in these timeless treasures of Portugal.

So, pack your bags and get ready to uncover the magic of Portugal’s historical villages – where every cobblestone tells a story, and every moment feels like a step back in time. Happy exploring!