The classification highlights its ancient history and cultural value, strengthening tourism in the municipality of Póvoa de Lanhoso.
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The Castro de Lanhoso, located at the top of Monte do Pilar, was recently recognized as “Monument of the Month” by the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage. This distinction recognizes the historical and heritage importance of the castro, whose origins date back to the Chalcolithic period, through Romanization and defensive use during the Middle Ages.
It is characterized by its circular layout, encompassing remains of ancient walls and Roman buildings, as well as a 17th-century sanctuary within the walls. The “Monument of the Month” initiative aims to raise awareness of this type of archaeological structure, encouraging academic research and tourist interest.
The recognition came as a result of conservation efforts promoted by the City Hall and the Adere-Lanhoso Association, which recently completed campaigns to clean, restore, and improve access to the site. These interventions allowed for the opening of new interpretive trails, the installation of educational signage, and the provision of accessible routes to the top, where guests can enjoy a privileged view of the Ave and Cávado river valleys.
Local officials point out that the interpretation of the castro, based on remains such as drainage systems, stone walls, and the existing keep, helped shed light on the Roman presence and subsequent medieval occupation of the site. The proximity of the granite monolith and its religious apogee, with the creation of the sanctuary, offer a continuous interpretation of the site’s strategic and spiritual importance.
According to technicians from IPPAR (now DGPC), the classification as a National Monument since 1910 strengthened the legal framework for protection, but it lacked active promotion in tourist circuits. With this election, a significant increase in visitors is expected in the summer of 2025, complementing the existing cultural offerings of Lanhoso Castle and the local museum.
The municipality announced that, in partnership with Turismo do Porto e Norte, tourist packages will be launched that include guided tours of the Castro de Lanhoso, the sanctuary, and the Travassos Gold Museum. The tours will include historical information about the Romanization of the Peninsula, the connection with the first king of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques, and educational workshops for schools on archaeology.
The Castro de Lanhoso, with approximately 3,000 years of history, is once again gaining national and regional prominence, establishing itself as a central element in the cultural and tourist promotion of Póvoa de Lanhoso, reinforcing its historical identity and strengthening sustainable local development.
