Castelo Novo: Medieval Village and Cultural Heritage

Castelo Novo is a historic village with a predominantly medieval appearance; narrow, winding streets shape its layout. It lies in the amphitheatre formed by the Serra da Gardunha. This means that both the village’s character and its buildings, as well as walking routes and outdoor activities, can be possible focal points for your stay.

Village Character, Castle and Notable Buildings

The historic village of Castelo Novo is classified as a Conjunto de Interesse Público (CIP) under Portaria n.º 606/2020. The castle was built in the 12th century and severely damaged in the 1755 earthquake. The Casa da Câmara, the main public building there, stands in the main square and has two floors. The Chafariz de D. João V was built on its main façade and also has two floors.

Another distinctive landmark is the Lagariça: a large wine press carved into the rock, which village residents used for centuries. The Núcleo Museológico de Castelo Novo displays, among other things, metal and ceramic objects. The Igreja Matriz de Castelo Novo dates to the 18th century. Together, these buildings and collection items offer various points of interest if you are interested in architecture, crafts and the history of the village.

Roman Traces and Event Dates

Archaeological finds identify Quinta do Ervedal in the Freguesia Castelo Novo as a Roman vicus. The site was inhabited from the beginning of the 1st century AD until the 6th or 7th century. Thus, alongside its predominantly medieval appearance, Castelo Novo also has a distinct history dating back to Roman times. The ruins of Quinta do Ervedal have been classified as a Sítio de Interesse Público since 2023. A municipal notice in 2025 stated that arrangements for public visits were still being developed.

The Festival de Música Antiga was held in Castelo Novo in 2023 and 2024. If you would like to plan your trip around the festival, check the specific event dates before making plans.

Hiking, Cycling and the Ribeira de Alpreade

The PR11 hiking trail passes the Ribeira de Alpreade, Cabeço da Forca, the castle, Capela de Santa Ana, the Lagariça, Casa da Câmara and the Pelourinho. Its route thus links several of the cultural sites mentioned above with the stream. Trail conditions may change; check the route status before setting out.

The Grande Percurso Ciclável AHP passes through Castelo Novo. If you plan to cycle the route, check the route conditions and signage beforehand. The Caminho do Moleiro runs along the banks of the Alpreade and recalls the importance of the old rye mills that are still visible. At Praia Fluvial de Castelo Novo, visitors can swim in the Ribeira de Alpreade alongside cascades.

Local Cuisine and Practical Information

Arroz tostado is a speciality of Castelo Novo, while tigelada is a typical dessert. If you are considering local dishes as part of your trip, these two names offer a specific connection to the village’s cuisine.

The tourist office for the historic village of Castelo Novo is located at Largo da Bica N1, 6230-160. Visitors arriving by train can request a free transfer from the tourist office; the request must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Check transfer availability and the tourist office’s current arrangements before your trip.

When deciding whether to choose Castelo Novo as a destination, you can weigh your interests: the medieval village layout and castle offer a historical focus, while PR11, the cycling route and swimming provide other possible highlights.

Discover more destinations: Alcaria, São Miguel De Acha, Ermida, Pena Falcão, Álvaro, Castelo Branco, Quartos, Vila Velha De Rodão.

Back to the main travel overview: Castelo Branco.