Good morning Steemians!
In a previous post, I spoke about the castle of Bragança and its characteristics. Today I want to deepen the theme and everything that surrounds this castle.
The castle was mentioned in a document dated July 7 of 1128 that was brought under control of King Afonso I of Portugal (1112-1185). For defensive reasons, the village was moved to the current local. It was near the hill of Benquerença on the sidelines of Fervença river, reusing them materials in the construction of new homes and the castle for the defense of the people.
The town received its Foral Charter from King Sancho I (1185-1211). The sovereign endowed the village with funds to construct a wall and castle in 1187. During this time, the conflict between Sancho I and León resulted in violence and saw Leonese forces taken over the village.
In the midst of the 1383-1385 Portuguese succession crisis, the mayor of the town João Afonso Pimentel did not take sides, having conflicted feelings on taking sides. Later, the land was taken by the kingdom of Castile, only to be returned to Portuguese possession by the King John I in the Treaty of Segovia in 1400. He conducted massive reinforcement and strengthening of the defenses. The marriage of Afonso (1st Duke of Bragança) and Beatriz, daughter of Nuno Álvares Pereira started the House of Bragança. During their time, Afonso V (1438-1481) raised Bragança to city status.
During the reign of King Manuel I (1495-1521), the town and its castle's architecture and local plan were recorded by Duarte de Armas in his Book of Fortresses, published in 1509.
The castle of Bragança was classified by IPEGAR as a National Monument by Decree on 23 June 1910. The General Directorate of National Buildings and Monuments began extensive restoration and reconstruction of the walls. Since 1936, a historic military museum is housed on the premises of the keep.
Hope you like my post!!
Have a nice day!!
@a-quarius