Muralhas

Muralhas
The walls that once surrounded and defended the town of Serpa still reflect today the grandeur and magnificence of the age in which they were built: during the reign of king Dinis.

Serpa was probably fortified before this date, but the increasing population and growing defense needs led to the construction of a protective belt, with the military characteristics of the Medieval age.

With an average height of 9 metres and supported by towers, the fortress wall was open at three points where emblazoned gates gave entrance to the "White Town": the gates of Beja, of Moura and of Seville (Spain), as they were made pointing to the direction of these centers.

Now they form grand arches that have to be passed in order to enter the town´s historical center.

To the South, the aqueduct, built essentially to supply the Palace of the Earl of Ficalho with water, is set upon the walls, exhibiting tall arches, and it has been declared a national monument.