Castelo Branco

It was built by the Knight Templars between 1214-1230, with alterations in the reign of King Dinis. Parts of the perimeter wall and the keep of the former commanders' palace remain. Inside the perimeter of the walls is the Church of Saint Maria of the Castle. The view from the top is impressive - including the city, the surrounding countryside, and (in the distant north) the Estrela and Gardunha mountain ranges.

Much changed by renovations over the years. Located in the highest part of the city, near the remains of the castle. Established by the Templars.

One of the most extraordinary baroque Portuguese gardens and, for you alone, it would justify the visit to the city. Built in the 18th century on the initiative of the first Bishop of Castelo Branco, next to the winter palace which today houses the Museum Junior Tavares Proença. The garden is unique in its originality and elegance. Of baroque inspiration, between his avenues of box trees are numerous granite statues which represent (among other things) the four parts of the world then known (Europe, Asia, Africa and India), the signs of the Zodiac, the stations of the year and his months. From the great lake, where it comes to Moses's waterfall, they break two monumental staircases, that of the Kings and of the Apostles. Notably, among the images of the Kings of Portugal, the representations of the Filipes of the Third Dynasty, as well as that of the Cardinal-King Henry (due to his Castilian sympathies), were sculpted smaller than the rest.

Rebuilt Renaissance style in the 18th century (previously there was another church here, probably built in the 14th or 17th century). It has only one nave, which is separated from the main chapel by a beautiful Renaissance arch, in whose fastening is the coat of arms of arms of D. Martim Afonso de Melo, bishop of Guarda.

The inner walls of this church, about which the date of the foundation is not known, are covered of beautiful ceramic tiles of the 18th century, which represent religious subjects: scenes of the life of the Virgin Maria, the Apostles, the Last supper of Jesus, etc.

A church of late Gothic characteristics, connected with one of the most popular worships of the city, of Our Lady of Mércoles. Two square turrets that flank the front, advanced regarding the facade and finish with pyramidal covering, give it a curious aspect. The interior, of a nave, has walls covered in 16th century ceramic tiles.