Portalegre is a city in Portugal located in Portalegre district in the municipality of Portalegre. The city is positioned on the border of Serra de São Mamede Natural Park close to Spain. The town attracts a large number of tourists mostly due to its historical background with sites dating back to the 13th century. Portalegre is situated in a very unique surrounded as it was a major city back then from the 17th century.
The town’s history dates back to the 13th century when the Portuguese struggled to have power over the place. The town was known as Amoea during the Roman occupation in the area and it was associated with different the armies that occupied it. British troops were later taken as prisoners from Portalegre in 1704. It was also the headquarters of the British troops assisting the Portuguese against the French during the Peninsular War from 1808 to 1814.
Air transportation, road transportation and rail transportation are the methods of transportation that can be used to get to the city. Air transportation can be accessed in the nearest airport but other means of transport are needed to get to the interior of the town. Rail transportation is also possible as there is a train service railway line that passes across the town linking it with different destinations all across the country. Road transportation can be through bus services linking the city with other different cities all across Portugal. Renting a car is another excellent option as it provides flexibility for the traveler making it possible to travel to places where buses do not go to.
Among the different places that will for sure attract tourist visiting the place is the many historical remaining found in the place. The oldest historical monument is the Igreja do Mosteiro de São Francisco that dates back to 1275 and was renovated a couple of times in the 16th and 18th century.
The town museum, Casa de Poeta José Régio museum, is equipped with historical artifacts dating back to the 15thcentury and is for sure an attractive sight to any tourists. The town cathedral dates back to 16th century with added additions from the 18th century. Another interesting piece is the 16th century windows displayed at the home of Dom Nuno de Sousa. Portalegre serves as a centre of tourist’s attraction with nearby tourist destinations such as Castelo de Vida, Crato and Marvão. The city of Portalegre offers one a fantastic view of the historical past with the numerous archeological findings located in the place.
