Two gems of Lamego

Lamego is a beautiful gem nestled in the stunning Douro Valley. We’ve mentioned this charming city on our blog before, but we thought it was time to take a closer look and share some information about two of its most impressive landmarks - the castle, and the cistern.

Both offer a fascinating peek into the past. The castle sits high on a hill about 543 meters above sea level. Not only does it have a rich history, but the views from up there are just stunning. You feel on top of the world as you look out over the city and the rolling hills of the Douro Valley!

The castle dates back to the 12th century, and was built on top of an ancient settlement that dates back to the 5th century BC. While it started out as a defensive fort during the Islamic rule, it had a makeover after the Christian Reconquista. So, you'll see a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles throughout the castle. The keep tower, one of the best-preserved parts of the castle, is particularly impressive. You can climb it and get a sense of just how important this castle was for defending the area back in the day. And trust me, the views up there are absolutely worth the climb!

Close to the castle, you’ll find a 13th-century cistern. It’s an underground water reservoir that was built to keep Lamego's inhabitants stocked with fresh water during sieges. The cistern is incredibly well-preserved and gives you a real taste of medieval engineering. With its vaulted ceiling, four arches, and sturdy pillars, it’s like stepping into a hidden world beneath the city.

So, what’s it like to visit today? Whether you’re wandering the Castle walls, or heading down into the cool, stone-lined cistern, you’ll definitely get a feel for life in medieval Portugal. The site also offers some seriously stunning views of Lamego and the surrounding landscape—perfect for a few great photos! These two historic sites tell the story of a city that’s been around for centuries, and visiting them will give you a true taste of Portugal’s rich medieval past.