Accommodation

Castelo Branco Casa de São Torcato Casa do Balcão Tourism in the Country / Country Tourism in the Country / Country Houses Houses Address: Rua do Fundo nº366000-610, Póvoa de Rio de Address: S. Torcato Moradal, 6160 – 132 Estreito Moinhos Telephone: +351 272 654 008; 272 654 008 Fax: +351 Telephone: +352 272 43 13 31 / +351 91 775 14 17 272 654 008 E-mail: [email protected] Website: E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www http://www.casadobalcao.pt .s-torcatomoradal.com;http://www.s- torcatomoradal.com/stmoradal.htm Timetable: 8:00am - 12:00pm; Breakfast timetable: 8:00am - 11:00am; Other informations: Characteristics and Services: Registration No.: 3432; 3433; Number of beds: 11; Number of rooms: 4; Double rooms with Characteristics and Services: toilet: 3; Rooms in the main house: 4; Television room; Double Games room; Swimming-pool; Number of beds: 10; Number of rooms without toilet : 1; Internet Access; Reserved area for non- rooms: 9; Double rooms with toilet: 10; Television room; Number smokers; Reserved area for smokers; Smoke free; Garden; of detached houses : 1; Central air conditioning; Central heating; Room facilities: Internet Access; Reserved area for non-smokers; Reserved area Heating in room; Hair dryer in room; Internet access in room; Air for smokers; Bar; conditioning in room; Access: Payments: Outdoor parking; Buses; Guiding price: $$ (30€ - 60€); Room facilities: Access: Heating in room; Television in room; Hair dryer in room; Air Bike friendly; conditioning in room; Accessibility: Accessibility: Accessible route to the entrance: Total; Accessible entrance: Disabled access; Facilities for disabled; Total; Accessible circulation inside: Partial; Accessible Timetable: areas/services: Bedrooms; Breakfast timetable: 08h00 - 10h00; Payments: Guiding price: $$$ (60€ - 90€); Hotel Império do Rei Hotel accommodation / Hotel / ** Casas do Regato Address: Rua dos Prazeres, 206000-209 Castelo Branco Tourism in the Country / Country Telephone: +351 272 341 720 Houses E-mail: [email protected] Website: Address: Rua da Batista, nº 9 6000-610 Póvoa de Rio http://www.imperiodorei.pt Moinhos - Castelo Branco Telephone: +351 272 431 207 Fax: +351 272 348 808 Characteristics and Services: E-mail: [email protected] Website: Bar; Television room; Number of beds: 34; Number of rooms: 18; http://www.herdadedoregato.com Internet Access; Shops; Gay friendly; Laundry service; Room facilities: Other informations: Air conditioning in room; Telephone in room; Television in room; Registration No.: 3692; Hair dryer in room; Internet access in room; Heating in room; Characteristics and Services: Access: Number of beds: 8; Number of rooms: 2; Central air conditioning; Buses; Train stations; Bike friendly; Central heating; Number of suites: 2; Reserved area for non- Payments: smokers; Reserved area for smokers; Restaurant; Bar; Jacuzzi; Credit cards accepted; Room facilities: Accessibility: Heating in room; Television in room; Air conditioning in room; Disabled access; Reserved parking spaces; Accessible route to Access: the entrance: Total; Accessible entrance: Total; Reception area Buses; Train stations; suitable for people with special needs; Accessible areas/services: Payments: Bar/Café; Guiding price: $$$$ (>90€);

The Hotel is very central; it is a short 2 minute walk from the Hotel Rainha D. Amélia civic center of the city (where the nightlife happens), as well as Hotel accommodation / Hotel / **** from the Cine-Teatro Avenida and the national monument Jardim do Paço Episcopal (a beautiful 18th century baroque garden). It Address: Rua de Santiago, 15 6000-179 Castelo Branco has a 24 hours reception, breakfast buffet with local products

2013 Turismo de Portugal. All rights reserved. 1/19 [email protected] Telephone: +351 272 348 800 Fax: +351 272 348 808 and free parking. All the rooms have air conditioning, a desk, a E-mail: [email protected];reservas@hotelrainh flat screen cable TV, private WC, telephone and a wake up adamelia.pt Website: service. Also, we have free internet wireless available in all http://www.bestwesternrainhadamelia.com building. Other informations: Wireless Internet in the public areas and some rooms. The Best Leiturismo Western Hotel Rainha D. Amélia also offers rooms for Tourism in the Country / Country Houses conferences and meetings with capacity for about 450 people. Address: Rua da Ladeira, N.º56000-730 Sobral do Campo Banqueting rooms with capacity uo to 400 people. Free parking and free access to Internet Wireless in rooms and public areas. Telephone: +351 93 701 04 50 E-mail: [email protected] Website: Registration No.: 18 http://www.leiturismo.com Characteristics and Services: Currency exchange; Bar; Restaurant; Television room; Number of Characteristics and Services: beds: 124; Number of rooms: 64; Internet Access; Reserved area Swimming-pool; Number of beds: 8; Number of rooms: 4; Double for non-smokers; Air conditioning; Target price: $$$ (60€ - 90€); rooms with toilet: 4; Television room; Central air conditioning; Access: Internet Access; Pets allowed; Bar; Smoke free; Garden; Outdoor parking; Buses; Train stations; Covered garage; Room facilities: Room facilities: Heating in room; Internet access in room; Air conditioning in Air conditioning in room; Telephone in room; Steel safe in room; room; Television in room; Hair dryer in room; Internet access in room; Access: Mini-bar in room; Rooms available for smokers; Train stations; Bike friendly; Accessibility: Payments: Disabled access; Facilities for disabled; Disabled access; Guiding price: $$$$ (>90€); "All inclusive" rates; Payments: Accessibility: Credit cards accepted; Travellers Cheques accepted; Accessible route to the entrance: Total; Accessible entrance: Timetable: Total; Accessible circulation inside: Partial; Accessible Breakfast timetable: 07h30 - 10h00; Room service timetable: areas/services: Bedrooms, Meeting rooms, Restaurant, Bar/Café; 08h00 - 24h00; Care skills: Visual impairment, Hearing impairment, Motor disability, Mental disability;

The Best Western Rainha D. Amélia is situated in the centre of Castelo Branco, in the heart of the most important commercial Monte da Fonte Santa de São Luís area and just a few steps from the historic town centre. The Tourism in the Country / Country Houses elegant decoration of our hotel provides a sophisticated environment and our guests are guaranted a personalised Address: Estrada da Fonte Santa6000 Castelo Branco welcome. Telephone: +351 927 183 165 E-mail: [email protected] Website: Melia Castelo Branco http://www.fontesantasluis.com/ Hotel accommodation / Hotel / **** Other informations: Address: Rua da Piscina6000-776 Castelo Branco 1 sofa bed in family room Telephone: +351 272 349 280 Fax: +351 272 329 759 Characteristics and Services: E-mail: [email protected] Website: Number of beds: 8; Number of rooms: 4; Double rooms with http://www.trypcolinacastelo.com toilet: 2; Rooms in the main house: 2; Rooms in the adjacent building: 2; Television room; Pets allowed; Other informations: Access: Free access to Health Club (indoor heated pool, sauna, jacuzzi Outdoor parking; Train stations; and Turkish bath) for guests. Parking free and Internet WI-FI free. Room facilities: Heating in room; Television in room; Hair dryer in room; Air conditioning in room; Accessibility: Characteristics and Services: Disabled access; Facilities for disabled; Central heating; Bar; Restaurant; Television room; Number of Timetable: beds: 203; Number of rooms: 97; Number of suites: 6; Internet Breakfast timetable: 8am - 10am; Access; Reserved area for non-smokers; Air conditioning; Payments: Swimming-pool; Tennis courts; Sauna; Indoor swimming-pool; Guiding price: $$ (30€ - 60€); Jacuzzi; Squash; Target price: $$$ (60€ - 90€); SPA; Access: Outdoor parking; Buses; Train stations; Covered garage; Country House 10 minutes from de middle of the town of Castelo Room facilities: Branco. Air conditioning in room; Telephone in room; Television in room; Hair dryer in room; Internet access in room; Mini-bar in room; Heating in room; Rooms available for smokers; Pousada de Juventude de Castelo Branco Accessibility: Youth Hostels Disabled access; Facilities for disabled; Disabled access; Address: Rua Dr. Francisco José Palmeiro, Edifício do IPJ Payments: 6000-230 Castelo Branco Credit cards accepted; Telephone: +351 272 321 363 Fax: +351 272 321 364

2013 Turismo de Portugal. All rights reserved. 2/19 [email protected] Timetable: E-mail: [email protected] Website: Breakfast timetable: 07h30 - 10h30; Room service timetable: http://www.pousadasjuventude.pt 07h30 - 24h00; Timetable and reservations: 8h00 - 12h00 / 18h00 - 24h00; The hotel is located on the top of a hill around the medieval Characteristics and Services: castle, offering a great panoramic view over Castelo Branco and Youth Hostel Card; Number of beds: 64; Double rooms: 4; Shared the surrounding region. The hotel has 103 large and confortable rooms: 14; rooms, Restaurant, Bar, meeting rooms and Helth-Club. Payments: Credit cards accepted; The Castelo Branco Youth Hostel is back!! It was totally Parque de Campismo Municipal de Castelo Branco revamped and is now brand new, waiting to be visited by you Camping / Public and your friends! Address: Estrada Nacional nº 18 - 6000 - 050 CASTELO BRANCO Leave your luggage at the hostel and set out on the adventure. Telephone: 272330361 There's so much to see that it is going to be difficult to choose where to start... After touring around the city it is time to try Characteristics and Services: Rappel, Slide or if you prefer to keep seeing beautiful sights why Caravan instalations; Tents instalations; Sand ground; Natural not choose All Road or a canoe ride. And don't go back home shadows; Bathing facilities; Hot water showers; Cold water without trying the delicious typical dish of the region followed by showers; Sinks; Washtubs; Ironing-boards; Camping Card; arroz doce (sweet rice) or an enormous slice of the best Pão-de- Ló (sponge cake) that you've ever eaten!!

Solar de Alcains Come on, let's go!! Tourism in a Manor House Address: Quinta de S. Pedro - Alcains Gare 6005-063 Xisto Sentido Alcains Tourism in the Country / Country Houses Telephone: +351 272 900 150 Fax: +351 272 900 157 Address: Rua da Bica, Martim Branco6000-001 Almaceda E-mail: [email protected] Website: Telephone: +351 96 888 78 57 http://www.solardealcains.pt E-mail: [email protected] Website: Other informations: http://www.xistosentido.pt Registration No.: 1234; Other informations: Characteristics and Services: The houses have a double bedroom, a fireplace, air conditioning, Games room; Number of beds: 14; Number of rooms: 7; Double TV and a bathroom with shower: rooms with toilet: 7; Rooms in the main house: 7; - alecrim house, in a green color atmosphere, with a kitchenette (possibility of an extra bed) ; - amores-perfeitos house, in shades of rose, with a living and reading space with fireplace (possibility of an extra bed) ; - rosmaninho house, in lilac colors, with possible connection to the casa alfazema; - alfazema house, in violet colors, with accessibility for the disabled, (possibility of an extra bed , no TV).

The restaurant Bem-Me-Quer is open and advance booking is required. Characteristics and Services: Number of beds: 7; Double rooms with toilet: 4; Rooms in the main house: 4; Television room; Central air conditioning; Central heating; Number of suites: 4; Single rooms with toilet : 1; Restaurant; Pets allowed; Bar; Laundry service; Garden; Access: Outdoor parking; Bike friendly; Room facilities: Heating in room; Television in room; Hair dryer in room; Air conditioning in room; Timetable: Breakfast timetable: 8:00am - 10:00am; Payments: Guiding price: $$ (30€ - 60€); Accessibility: Disabled access; Facilities for disabled; Reserved parking spaces; Accessible route to the entrance: Partial; Accessible entrance: Partial; Accessible circulation inside: Partial; Accessible areas/services: Bedrooms, Restaurant, Bar/Café, Patio; Care skills: Motor disability, Mental disability;

2013 Turismo de Portugal. All rights reserved. 3/19 [email protected] Xisto sentido place consists of four shale houses which have been carefully restored while preserving their original style. It has ample surrounding space, a restaurant and a bar. To feel "back to the origins" you will have at your disposal the heritage house Espaço Memória João Terra.

Centro de Portugal

Castelo Branco Naturpesca - Guias de Pesca Desportiva Address: Av. Infante D. Henrique, 15 - Maxiais 6000-022 Castelo Branco Telephone: +351 967 092 077 E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.facebook.com/naturpesca.guiasdepesca Other informations: Registration No.: 8/2013 ; Activities: Boat Trips; Fishing; Nature watching; Birdwatching; The goal of Naturpesca is delivery Fishing Guides service. We offer all the conditions for catching fish species of high sporting interest, using rod and reel, giving preference to artificial baits. As we fished, we can see unique geological formations such as cliffs in the Tagus International river, or Portas de Ródão, several Mediterranean species of arbusts, or the largest birds of the Iberian Peninsula, as griffins, black storks and several species of big bird. Preferred fish species: Largemouth bass, Zander, Silurus Catfish, Brown Trout, Modalities: - Flyishing for barbel and carp, flats of Idanha and Marateca. - Fishing for brown trout in our region. - Support for carpfishing: includes transporting fishermans and equipment to remote locations. Recognition of the bottom with sonar and HD Down Image. - Support for fishing or other activities embedded: photography, film, research, etc.., Consider the case. We also provide kayak fishing or float tube. - Management of Fishing Concessions. We create and manage populations of habitat to obtain the quantity and / or quality.

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Castelo Branco Discoteca Alternativa Discoteca Repvblica Address: Quelha do Barrocal - Castelo Branco 6000 - Address: Quinta Ribeiro d'Ega 6000 - 001 Castelo 128 Castelo Branco Branco Telephone: +351 272 326 047 Telephone: +351 272 329 789; 96 678 82 66 E-mail: [email protected] Website: Characteristics and Services: http://www.repvblica.com.pt Bar; Timetable: 10 pm - 6 am; Domvs Characteristics and Services: Bar; Outdoor parking; Restaurant; Address: Campo da Pátria, 6000 Castelo Branco Telephone: 272 322 207 E-mail: [email protected]

Timetable: 2ª a 5ª 11h às 02h, 6ª a sábado 11h às 04h;

Centro de Portugal

Castelo Branco A Designed Life Rita Redshoes Exhibitions Telephone: 272330330 Contacts Music Museu Cargaleiro, Castelo Branco Contacts Website: Centro Cultural Alcains https://www.facebook.com/fundacaomanuelcargaleiro/ E-mail: [email protected] Website: https://ww http://www.fundacaomanuelcargaleiro.pt/ w.cm-castelobranco.pt/municipe/eventos/detalhe-evento/ Timetable: Start Date: 2021-09-24 End Date: 2021-09-24 10:00 AM-6:00 PM; "A Life Drawn" is the name of the exhibition that joins Manuel Timetable: Cargaleiro's unheard works at the painter's and ceramicist's 9:30 PM; museum in White Castle. The various paths followed within the Rita Redshoes began her career as a drummer in a school same graphic and artistic logic of Cargaleiro and the great theater group and went through numerous musical projects as attention to the elements of nature, where one makes the an author, interpreter and multi-instrumentalist. He made his passage of the abstract to the figurative, are the main bristle solo debut in 2008 at the Atomic Bees and has since joined strokes of this exhibition. "A Life Drawn" can be seen from collaborations with artists such as David Fonseca, The Legendary Tuesday to Sunday at the museum of the Cargaleiro Foundation Tigerman, Noiserv, GNR and Fernando Tordo, and has in the centre of the Albicastrese city. The exhibition opened to collaborated on numerous award-winning film and theatre the public on June 5 and still has no date to finish. soundtracks, including edited disks in this area. "O Amor Não É Razão" and "Contigo É Pra Perder" (with Camané) are the two most recent singles by Rita Redshoes, which will be part of her long-awaited new feature, to be released in 2021. Rita Redshoes has four albums of previously edited originals, "Golden Era", "Lights & Darks", "Life is a Second of Love" and "Her". The latter was produced by Victor Van Vugt. In addition to being the album in which the artist most instruments played (piano, omnichord, keyboards and acoustic guitar) is also the work in which Rita Redshoes writes and interprets, for the first time solo, three themes in Portuguese, one of which was co-authored with Pedro da Silva Martins.

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Castelo Branco Jardim do Paço Episcopal Address: Rua Bartolomeu da Costa 6000-642 Castelo Branco Tel: +351 272 344 277 Timetable: October - 1 April: 9am - 5pm; April - October - 9am - 7pm.;

Built on the orders of Bishop João de Mendonça at the beginning of the 18th century, the Garden of the Episcopal Palace is one of the most original examples of the Baroque in Portugal, and the distinguishing landmark of the city of Castelo Branco.

Laid out in the Italian style, the garden has various levels connected by steps with avenues and thematic walks marked out by flower beds ringed with ornamental box hedging. One of its most striking features is undoubtedly the large number of granite statues, especially those that line the steps and that represent the kings of Portugal arranged in chronological order. Perhaps the most curious aspect is that the statues of the kings who governed Portugal under Spanish rule, from 1580 to 1640, are smaller than those of the other kings.

There is no shortage of lakes beside the avenues, with water features and fountains interspersed with many other statues alluding to such diverse themes as the signs of the Zodiac, the seasons of the year, the four continents, the four moral virtues and the three theological virtues.

Construction of the Episcopal Palace in the garden began in the late 16th century and was built as the winter residence of the Bishops of Guarda. Today, it houses the Francisco Tavares Proença Júnior Museum, another of the city's main attractions.

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Castelo Branco Convento de Santo António dos Capuchos - Castelo Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo - Castelo Branco Branco Address: 6000 Castelo Branco Address: 6000 Castelo Branco Built in the 13th century within the castle walls, the Church of This convent was built in 1562 by the Mendicant Friars of St. Santa Maria (St. Mary) was the first mother church in Castelo Francis, on the orders of the Commendator of the Order of Christ, Branco. Through to the 14th century, it hosted meetings Fernando de Menezes. In 1779, queen Maria I established a between the leading townsfolk and the monastic-military school here given into the care of Brother José de Dominguiso authorities. and funded by the Municipality. After 1834, it became a barracks and a military hospital. It is currently home to the Castelo Branco First damaged in 1640 during the Campaign for the Restoration Infantry Regiment. of Portuguese Independence against Castile, there was then a fire in 1704. Finally, in the French Invasion led by general Junot, The current building dates to the 18th century, taking a in which Castelo Branco bore the brunt of an attack, it was Mannerist style. From the gallery, there´s a good vantage point destroyed. It was completely rebuilt in the 19th century. for the blue and white tile panels, without much else of decorative note inside. On the North lateral façade, the bare wall was part of a primitive Romanesque church. On the interior, there is a single nave Igreja de Santo António ou da Misericórdia - featuring some old tombstones including the final resting place Castelo Branco of 16th century, locally born poet, João Rois. Address: 6000-462 Castelo Branco

This church is also known as Santo António (St. Anthony), the Igreja de São Miguel, Matriz de Castelo Branco alternative patron saint, or the Old Misericórdia as it was the Address: Largo da Sé 6000-102 Castelo Branco original home of the Misericórdia (state charity institution). In This Romanesque - Gothic building was built during the 13th and 1836, it was transferred to its current facilities in the Convent of 14th centuries. However, beyond the walls little survived the test Graça. of time. Various rebuildings were carried out with the first major A primitive church was built in the 16th century by Simão Silva. restoration undertaken in 17th century determining the present In addition to a house on Rua d´Ega that was used as a hospital, structure. At the end of that century, the bishop of Guarda, this was the Misericórdia. In 1620, Misericórdia Purveyor, bishop Martins de Melo, began rebuilding but it was when Castelo Nuno de Noronha, requested crown funding to build a Hospital. Branco was elevated to the status of bishopdom in 1771 that the Work was completed during the reign of João V. greatest amount of work was done. It served as the cathedral through to 1881 when it was annexed onto the bishopdom of It is the Joanine Baroque that defines the appearance of the Portalegre. current building with the sculptural exuberance of the façade trapped within the surrounding narrow street. On the On the spacious interior, there are the 17th century altarpieces entranceway front, there is a representation of Saint Isabel and with canvas paintings by Bento Coelho da Silveira and the in one corner of the church a niche contains a statue of Saint alterations carried out early in the 19th century on the orders of Anthony. bishop Vicente Ferrer da Rocha. He was responsible for installing the organ in the main chapel and building the Chapel of There is a single nave with 17th century depictions of the Santíssimo Sacramento, with its Pedro Alexandrino paintings, Visitation and the Nuptials of St. Isabel and St. Zechariah in the and the sacristy. In both, there is an exuberant style that lateral chapel altars. The main chapel has a Baroque gold leaf effectively combines Baroque, Rocaille and Neo-classical carved altar and a polychromatic wood statue of St. Francis. On influences. the painted wooden ceiling, there is some impressive local craftsmanship with a central representation of the Pentecost. Museu de Francisco Tavares Proença Júnior Address: Largo Dr. José Lopes Dias 6000-462 Castelo Museu de Arte Sacra da Misericórdia Branco Address: Rua Bartolomeu da Costa 6001-909 Castelo Telephone: +351 272 344 277 Fax: +351 272 347 880

2013 Turismo de Portugal. All rights reserved. 9/19 [email protected] Branco E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.imc- Telephone: +351 272 348 420 Fax: +351 272 322 185 ip.pt E-mail: [email protected] Timetable: Timetable: 10am - 12.30pm / 2pm - 5.30pm. (Tuesday to Sunday) Closed: 9am - 12pm / 2pm - 5.30pm (Monday to Friday) Saturday and Monday and Public Holidays (1 January, Easter Sunday, 1 May, 25 Sunday, booking needed ; December); Characteristics and Services: Characteristics and Services: Guided Tours; Guided Tours; Located close to the Episcopal Palace, on the edge of the city, Entering the city from the north, you cannot help but notice a this convent belonged to Franciscan monks through to 1526. It striking Baroque building. This was the secondary residence of was then donated to the care of the Hermits of St. Augustine. the Bishops of Guarda and home to the Bishop of Castelo Branco between 1771 and 1831. On the Renaissance entranceway An inscription over the main façade registers the 1519 date of pediment, there is an inscription describing how the Palace was construction that took place following a legacy in the will of built on the orders of Nuno de Noronha, bishop of Guarda, Rodrigo Rebelo. From that period, there is only the Manueline between 1596 and 1598. church entrance which has the family coat of arms in the centre. The palace was converted into the Francisco Tavares Proença The structure underwent substantial change in the 18th century Júnior Museum in 1971. It was named after its founder, a man of resulting in Mannerist features along with decorative Baroque many scientific and artistic interests and a reputable characteristics that have remained until this day. archaeologist who first put his collections on public display in 1910. Access to the convent and church is via a narthex, an exterior porchway, that protects the main doors. There are around 5,000 exhibits featuring important sets of Roman inscriptions, Bronze Age megaliths, Iron Age gold The Misericórdia, founded in 1514 was only transferred here in jewellery in addition to Neolithic and Palaeolithic articles. 1836. Currently, the convent is divided between an Old People´s Home and a small Museum of Sacred Art. Also included in the collection are pieces donated from the Palace: painting, carpets, sculptures and other pieces from the Of the pieces making up the Misericórdia collection, highlights 16th to 19th centuries. The examples of embroidery are are two 16th and 18th century ivory Christs, the 18th century highlights of the section on Religious Vestment, Costume and depiction of Saintly Queen Isabel and the standards and flags Castelo Branco Embroidery. embroidered with scenes from the Passion. The atelier/school of regional embroidery is a must on any visit. It forms part of the Traditional Textile Methods section that Santuário de Nossa Senhora de Mércoles demonstrates processes involved in weaving linen. Address: Monte de Mércoles 6000 Castelo Branco

Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora de Mércoles This sanctuary is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, its secondary patron saints are Santa Eufemia and Santa Luzia. In the document in which the Herdade de Acafa was donated to the Templars, located next to the hill where the sanctuary is built, there is the first mention of the "Capul Mercoris".

The architectural style of the church reveals a transition from Roman to Gothic style. The church suffered alterations during the seventeenth and nineteenth centuries, and is now classified as a Building of Public Interest. The church maintains a primitive design, with a single quadrangular nave and a single apsidal chapel. The church faces the East, in accordance with liturgical norms.

The annual pilgrimage is held on the third Sunday of Easter and the following Monday and Tuesday.

Centro de Portugal

Castelo Branco Castelo Branco Embroidery

Other informations: Castelo Branco Embroidery; Known to have been in production between the 17th and 19th centuries, the first reference to this local style was made by Jaime Lopes Dias, at the 4th Beirão Congress held in Castelo Branco in 1931. He called for greater recognition of this form of artistic expression as part of the regional heritage. In 1976, the Atelier-School of Regional Embroidery was set up in the Francisco Tavares Proença Júnior Museum. The centre continues to operate and is dedicated to preserving, producing, restoring and promoting this style.

The embroidery is done in silk thread on linen using various styles of stitch but especially the defining slack stitch, also known as the Castelo Branco stitch. There is no limit to the range of colours although there are monochromatic examples where the design takes on greater prominence. In general terms, Castelo Branco Embroidery can be divided into two styles: the popular, with more obvious designs, and the erudite, more elaborate and complex and attributed to the upper, better educated classes. Some designs reflect influences brought back from the Orient on the Portuguese voyages of exploration. However, there are also references to daily life, the local fauna and flora or even just erudite artistic figures appropriate to the respective periods and taken from Renaissance and Baroque imagery.

In some parts of the Castelo Branco district, they are still part of the bride´s trousseau shown on her wedding day when the bride and groom open up their homes to the guests.

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Castelo Branco Naturtejo UNESCO Global Geopark Parque Natural do Tejo Internacional E-mail: [email protected] Website: E-mail: [email protected] Website: https://natural.pt/protected http://www.naturtejo.com -areas/parque-natural-tejo-internacional?locale=pt;https:/ Contacts /natural.pt/protected-areas/parque-natural-tejo- Naturtejo - Empresa de Turismo, EIMAv. Nuno Álvares, internacional?locale=en 306000-083 Castelo BrancoTel.: +351 272 320 176 Characteristics and Services: Characteristics and Services: Signposted routes; Park area: 27.968 ha.; Altitude: Máx - 383 m; Signposted routes; Park area: 5.000 Km2; Altitude: 40 m2 - 1.227 min - 120 m; m2; Accommodation facilities available; Guided Tours; Access: Buses; Train stations; The River Tagus is the longest River flowing across Portugal. Its source is in Spain and the river travels a great distance before reaching Portuguese territory, where it establishes the frontier Located between the Tagus valley and the mountains in the between the two countries over a 50 km stretch that has been centre of the country, Geopark Naturtejo was the first in classified as a Natural Park, before continuing its journey to the Portugal to be integrated by UNESCO in its global network of river’s estuary mouth in Oeiras, close to Lisbon. geoparks, an international seal of approval which promotes the balance between Man and Nature. With a rich geological, The Natural Park encompasses a portion of the municipalities of historical, natural and cultural heritage, this territory extends Castelo Branco and Idanha-a-Nova, in a transition zone between over a large area of about 5,000 km2 which is distributed over the mountains of the Centro de Portugal region and the plains of seven municipalities - Castelo Branco, Idanha-a-Nova, the Alentejo. Here we find valleys with sharp slopes that provide Nisa, Oleiros, Penamacor, Proença-a-Nova, Vila Velha de a spectacular natural setting next to the River Tagus and the Ródão. streams that flow into it (Pônsul, Erges and Aravil), where around 154 bird species make their nests, that have been classified by In this site are represented the main stages of the geological the Park. This zone is excellent for birdwatching. It's possible to history of the last 600 million years in more than 170 see colonies of black storks (the Park’s symbol), eagles and geosites, all locations of recognised geological interest, of which eagle owls. But those who are looking for more active tourism 17 geomonuments stand out, such as the ichnofossils of Penha activities, may opt for pedestrian walks or BTT rides, mountain Garcia or Portas de Ródão. climbing or canoeing.

In this multimillennial landscape, pagan, Roman, Arab, Jewish, The diversity of its exceptional natural heritage is due to the and Christian influences are all mixed up together. There are harmonious coexistence with human activities such as many testimonies of ancient history in the many castles, agriculture and pastoral activities. Regional products are of fine churches and museums, in the schist villages or in the quality, in particular pure honey, olive oil, home-made bread or historical villages such as Monsanto, once considered to be cheeses, made using traditional techniques, that may be the most Portuguese village in Portugal, and Idanha-a-Velha, a purchased directly from the producer. location in which we can find the Visigothic cathedral of Egitânia.

This is an area with ideal conditions for Nature Tourism and for the practice of many activities suitable to different degrees of physical demand, such as walking and biking, boat trips and canoeing on the Tagus River and its tributaries, or climbing. Bird watching deserves special emphasis, especially in the Tagus International Natural Park, a protected area in which you can observe approximately over 154 species of birds such as vultures, black storks, the Iberian imperial eagles or bee-eaters.

A visit to the Naturtejo Geopark is also an opportunity to get to know the ancient traditions, stories, and rituals of its people. In order to appreciate both the aromas and flavours of the regional gastronomy where honey, cheeses, sausages, or olive oil stand out. The diverse cultural expressions of which the richness and diversity of handicraft is also an example of this. In fact, pieces such as the embroidery of Castelo Branco, Nisa’s pottery or the adufes (a traditional Portuguese percussion instrument) of Idanha-a-Nova are worth noting.

Centro de Portugal

Castelo Branco Avis - Castelo Branco Beira Rent Address: Rua Cidade de Zuhai, Lote 182 - Loja 1 Address: Rua de Santiago, 72 r/c - 6000-001 Almaceda 6000-077 Castelo Branco Telephone: (+351) 272 325 561 Fax: (+351) 272 296 917 Telephone: +351 272 321 344 Fax: +351 272 327 742 / 272 325 562 E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.avis.com.pt Europcar - Castelo Branco : Monday to Friday: 0.00am - 12.30 / 2.00pm - 06.30pm; Address: Av. General Humberto Delgado, n.º 336000-081 Castelo Branco Telephone: +351 272 324 168; 96 706 61 70 Fax: +351 272 347 656 Budget - Castelo Branco E-mail: [email protected] Website: Address: Av.Cidade de Zuhai, Lote 182, Loja 16000-077 http://www.europcar.pt Castelo Branco Telephone: +351 272 321 344 Fax: +351 272 327 742 E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.budget.com.pt : from Monday to Friday: 9am-12.30pm / 2pm- 6.30pm;

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Castelo Branco A Lanterna - Castelo Branco Frei Papinhas Address: Rua Ruivo Godinho, 1 6000-275 Castelo Branco Address: Rua dos Prazeres, 31 6000-209 Castelo Branco Telephone: +351 272 342 866 Telephone: +351 272 323 090 Website: http://www.freipapinhas.no.sapo.pt Timetable and reservations: Reservations:: No; 12pm - 3pm / 7pm – 10pm Closed on Sunday; Timetable and reservations: Characteristics and Services: Reservations:: Recommended; 12pm - 3.30pm / 7pm - 11pm; Air conditioning; Capacity: 31; Characteristics and Services: Payments: Air conditioning; Capacity: 50; Reserved area for non-smokers; Travellers Cheques accepted; Target price: $$ (10€ - 20€); Accessibility: Disabled access; Disabled access; Payments: Praça Velha Target price: $$ (10€ - 20€); Address: Praça Luís de Camões, 17 6000-116 Castelo Branco Telephone: +351 272 328 640 Fax: +351 272 328 620 Restaurante "O Lagar" - Herdade do Regato E-mail: [email protected] Website: Address: Herdade do Regato - Rua Batista, 9 6000-610 http://www.pracavelha.com Póvoa de Rio de Moinhos Timetable and reservations: Telephone: +351 272 431 207 Fax: +351 272 348 809 Reservations:: Recommended; 12.30pm - 3pm / 7.30pm – 10pm E-mail: [email protected] Website: Closed on Monday ; http://www.herdadedoregato.com Payments: Credit cards accepted; Travellers Cheques accepted; Target Timetable and reservations: price: $$$ (20€ - 30€); Reservations:: Recommended; 12 pm-3 pm / 7 pm-10.30 pm Characteristics and Services: Closed on Tuesday; Outdoor section; Air conditioning; Capacity: 65; Outdoor parking; Other informations: Reserved area for non-smokers; 10 minutes away from Castelo Branco. Granite-walled estate. 9 acres of olive groves. Mills and old wells. Playground "O Regatinho".; Payments: Restaurante "Varanda Real" - Best Western Hotel Credit cards accepted; Target price: $$ (10€ - 20€); Rainha D. Amélia Characteristics and Services: Address: Best Western Hotel Rainha D. Amélia - Rua Outdoor section; Air conditioning; Capacity: 100; Outdoor Santiago, 15 6000-179 Castelo Branco parking; Panoramic View; Reserved area for non-smokers; Telephone: +351 272 348 800 Fax: +351 272 348 809 Accessibility: E-mail: [email protected] Website: Disabled access; Disabled access; http://www.bestwesternrainhadamelia.com Enriched by history, the old Olive Mill was converted into a museum/restaurant, full of symbolism and human work. We Timetable and reservations: invite you to taste the delicacies cooked in a wood oven, while Reservations:: Recommended; enjoying the typical dishes of the region of Beira Baixa. Step Other informations: back in time and enjoy an environment that combines the weight 12 pm-3 pm / 7 pm-10.30 pm; of the past with a sophisticated contemporary. Payments: Credit cards accepted; Travellers Cheques accepted; Target price: $$ (10€ - 20€); Zé dos Cachopos Characteristics and Services: Address: Rua Dona Emília Oliveira Pinto, 13 6000-201 Capacity: 90; Outdoor parking; Reserved area for non-smokers; Castelo Branco Accessibility: Telephone: +351 272 345 537 Disabled access; Disabled access; The menu at the elegantly decorated Varanda Real restaurant Timetable and reservations: offers a wide range of regional dishes. These include roast kid, Reservations:: No; 12.30pm - 4pm / 7.30 - 10pm Closed: maranho, bucho from Sertã, cured meats and sausages and Tuesday; excellent cheeses. The restaurant also serves a range of selected Payments: international dishes. Credit cards accepted; Travellers Cheques accepted; Target price: $$ (10€ - 20€); Characteristics and Services: Air conditioning; Capacity: 120; Outdoor parking;

Centro de Portugal

Castelo Branco Naturtejo Geopark Tour of Castelo Branco

Deep in the interior of the country, where the Tagus River Not too big, not too small, Castelo Branco is a town on a becomes Portuguese, there is a preserved territory where human scale that is well worth knowing. We give some people live at the pace of nature and seem to have all the suggestions, but discovering it should be done at your time in the world to share their stories and knowledge own pace, exploring nooks and crannies that are not with others. always encountered by tourists.

Here you will find the Naturtejo Global Geopark, which covers The visit starts in the Cathedral (or Church of São Miguel) the municipalities of Castelo Branco, Idanha-a-Nova, Nisa, and continues to the Francisco Tavares Proença Junior Oleiros, Penamacor, Proença-a-Nova and Vila Velha de Museum. Here you can admire the Castelo Branco linen quilts, Rodão. There are 17 geomonuments in this area whose hand embroidered in many-coloured silk threads that importance is recognised by UNESCO, such as the imposing demonstrate the skill of the artisans of the region. Ródão Gateway which force the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula through a narrow gap, and the striking curious The Museum is housed in the former Bishop's Palace, formations of the ichnofossils of Penha Garcia. whose Gardens are the pride of the city. In a Baroque style, they combine fountains, lakes and waterfalls, but are mostly known But there is much more to discover in these lands which include for the statues of the Kings of Portugal adorning the steps. And the Tagus International Natural Park. On arrival, you when you look more closely you will notice that three are smaller immediately smell the aromas of pine, lavender and rosemary than the others... they represent the Spanish Kings who ruled the released from the vegetation, where rabbits, deer and foxes lurk country between 1580 and 1640. An ironic way to assert our and disappear instantly when they notice your presence. independence!

If you look carefully, you might see the colourful bee-eaters Across the street, the former kitchen gardens of the Palace are perched on the branches of trees, or nightingales and hoopoes now the City Park, a leisure space that besides the water outdoing each other with their singing. Black storks fly higher fountains and reflecting pools, retains vegetable and herb and spend some time here between February and August. And gardens that recall its former purpose. Nearby is the Museum of there are imperial eagles and vultures living in colonies that Sacred Art in the Graça Convent, another visit not to be missed. enjoy landing on the river cliffs from which they have the best view of the landscape. The Geopark organises birdwatching Praça de Camões or the Praça Velha (Old Square) is the centre of trips on which you can admire all this diversity – there are about the old city. The façades of some of the buildings have 154 species that frequent these parts! markings etched in the stone, such as the armillary sphere in the Paços do Concelho (Town Hall) and the Cross of Christ in the old The marks of the past are still present. Found in archaeological Order of Christ building. More mediaeval traces are to be found treasures such as the complex of River Tagus cave paintings in the houses in the surrounding streets, such as Rua Nova and and the ruins of Egitânia. And also in the historic villages of Rua dos Peleteiros (furriers). This road leads up the hill to Monsanto and Idanha-a-Velha and the churches that receive the castle, the best viewpoint in the city. lively pilgrimages every year. The most recent attractions in the city should also be seen: the You can even combine these visits with some exercise. The modern architecture of the Civic Centre, and the Cargaleiro range of activities is very varied and includes hiking, horse Museum with a large collection of the painter’s works. A boat riding and mountain biking, climbing and canoeing. To ride on the Lake in the Urban Park (Parque Urbano) or a dip in recuperate from these exertions, there’s nothing like a few the beach swimming pool, if it's summer, provide some moments of leisure on the river beaches, breathing in the fresh pleasant moments of relaxation. air and the aromas of the countryside, or a longer rest in the Nearby thermal spas at Monfortinho or Nisa. Nearby, it's worth visiting the Naturtejo Geopark, a preserved area where various species of flora and fauna are conserved. But the wealth of the region is its people. They are hospitable, Here, there is still a way of life traditionally linked to agriculture and love to welcome outsiders with delectable delicacies such and the rural environment, and the opportunity to taste local as strong smelling cheeses, kid or river fish cooked using age-old produce such as honey, sausages and the strong smelling recipes. Their skills are also revealed in their handicrafts - Castelo Branco cheese, bearing the name of the town. embroidery from Castelo Branco and ceramics from Nisa are souvenirs that will remind you of these lands until you return. And you surely will, because as they say in the region, "those Getting here who come always come back." - Castelo Branco is located about 50 kilometres from the border with Spain (Segura) - By road - A23 (Guarda-Torres Novas) with connection to A1 in Torres Novas- By train: Beira Baixa line www.cp.pt - By bus: Rede Expressos http://www.rede- expressos.pt

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Castelo Branco Aldeias do Xisto - Martim Branco Address: Rua da Bica nº 4 6000-003 Almaceda (Castelo Branco) Telephone: +351 272 959 176 E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.aldeiasdoxisto.pt Other informations: Timetable - Saturdays and Sundays: Winter: 3?6 p.m; Summer: 3?8 p.m.; Characteristics and Services: Other Activities; Enotourism and Gastronomy;

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Castelo Branco Castelo Branco

The origins of Castelo Branco can be found in Roman times with the settlers who established Albi Castrum on the slopes of the Cardosa hill. In 1214, king Afonso II bestowed this land on the Order of the Templar Knights, entrusting them with its fortification and defence. The Order set about building the Castle that became the focal point for the new town that would gradually expand outwards. In 1285, king Dinis and his queen Santa Isabel stayed here while visiting the region to survey and plan the reinforcement of border defences.

In 1510, Manuel granted a Charter to Castelo Branco. The original document is still held by the Municipal Council. The Misericórdia was founded simultaneously with the arrival of other religious orders including the Augustinian Friars, in the Convent of Graça, and the Capuchin Friars, located in the Convent of Santo António.

In 1535, king João III granted the settlement the title of "Eminent Town" and towards the end of the century the bishop of Guarda, Nuno de Noronha, ordered the building of the Episcopal Palace as the Winter residence for the clergy. The Palace survived both as a marker of the perimeter of old Castelo Branco and a major attraction of the current city. It currently houses the important Francisco Tavares Proença Júnior Museum that features the history behind the traditional Castelo Branco Silk Embroidery.

In 1771, king José I moved to recognise the growing commercial importance of the town in establishing the diocese of Castelo Branco, raising it to city status with the Church of São Miguel (St. Michael) becoming the Cathedral.

This became the focal point for the expansion of the city with the emerging bourgeois class choosing the location for their palaces and residences. After recovering from the Napoleonic invasion, with a major battle fought out in the vicinity, it was the inauguration of the railway line towards the end of the 19th century that resulted in Castelo Branco becoming an important industrial centre. Much of the development focused on the textile sector - a tradition that still continues.

Castelo Branco can easily be visited in a day. Head up the steep streets towards the Castle to take in the wonderful views out over the surrounding countryside.

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Castelo Branco Abreu / Castelo Branco Best Travel / Castelo Branco Address: Av. Nuno Álvares, 8-M 6000-083 Castelo Address: Rua Senhora de Mércules, 4 6000-280 Castelo Branco Branco Telephone: +351 272 348 530 Fax: +351 272 348 539 Telephone: +351 272 321 098 Fax: +351 272 321 099 E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.abreu.pt E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.bestravel.pt Other informations: Licence No.: 35/58; Payments: Credit cards accepted;

Empresa Martins - Agência de Viagens e Turismo BEST TRAVEL is the biggest franchising network of travel Address: Largo do Saibreiro, 14 6001-909 Castelo agencies, withholding more than 40 stores, strategically placed Branco all over the country. We promote the development of the best Telephone: +351 272 341 001 Fax: +351 272 346 917 solutions, fulfilling the wishes and needs of the customers in E-mail: [email protected] Website: terms of imagination, quality, practical sense and the price. BEST http://www.empresa-martins.pt TRAVEL's mission is accomplished when our customers return home 100% satisfied. Other informations: Licence No.: 1754; H. F. G. - Viagens e Turismo, Lda. Address: Av. General Humberto Delgado, 78-80 Edifício São Cristóvão R/ch Loja A 6000-081 Castelo Branco Telephone: +351 272 321 098 Fax: +351 272 321 099 E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.besttravel.pt

Other informations: Licence No.: 2346; Payments: Credit cards accepted; Its dream starts here!

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Castelo Branco Posto de Turismo - Castelo Branco Address: Welcome Center Turismo do CentroAvenida Nuno Álvares, 30 6000-083 Castelo Branco Telephone: +351 272 330 339 Fax: +351 272 330 350 E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected] Website: http://www.turismod ocentro.pt;http://www.visitcentrodeportugal.com.pt