Today we visited Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo to see the castle of Castelo Rodrigo, the town’s medieval castle/palace. The first fortress was built here in 1209, the same year a charter was granted for the city. The town today is near the border with Spain and it spent years in conflict before firmly becoming part of Portugal. This medieval town still has its walls and many of its structures and is still inhabited by about 50 people.

part of the village

The village grew over time and the castle was replaced with a palace of the Marquis of Castelo Rodrigo and Viceroy of Portugal. After some time, the government was resented by the locals who burned the palace, which was never rebuilt.

remains of the Castelo Rodrigo

more remains

This parish church was initially founded in 1192, but most of the current structure is from 15th and 16th centuries with renovations from the 17th-18th centuries.

The town pillory. This is where any official announcements were made and where criminals were publicly punished.

We had the opportunity to drive through some beautiful areas.

We were right along the border of Portugal and Spain

Portugal was over my right shoulder and Spain over my right.