페넬라 최고의 라이딩 경로

피게이라다포즈의 시계탑(Torre do Relógio)은 해변 산책로(Avenida Marginal)에 위치한 눈에 띄는 23미터 높이의 모더니즘 양식 랜드마크입니다. 이 시계탑은 도시 해변의 모습을 형성하며, 이로 인해 해변은 프라이아두렐루지(Praia do Relógio)로도 알려져 있습니다.

Penela Castle stands atop the rocky outcrop that gave it its name (peñela, "small stone hill"), dominating the town with imposing walls and towers dating from the 15th and 16th centuries. Founded in the 11th century by D. Sesnando Davides, it formed part of the Mondego defensive line, and its walls still reach 19 meters in height today. From the original fortress arose the castle that later served as a keep. On the walls, facing the Serra da Lousã mountain range, stand out arrow slits and loopholes, marks of its long military life, from arrows to firearms. Penela preserves three historical entrances: the Porta da Vila (Town Gate), the evocative Porta da Traição (Gate of Treason), with its double opening and Moorish inspiration, and the Porta do Relógio (Clock Gate), a reminder of the old breach where two towers collapsed in the 1755 earthquake. In short, a castle small in form, but enormous in history.

Although there are references to its existence as early as the High Middle Ages, what remains today dates from the late 14th century. Within the walls are remains of the old Medieval Palace, where the death of Dona Inês de Castro was reportedly decided, as well as the Church of Santa Maria da Alcáçova, founded in 1095 but restored in the 16th century. During the Arab occupation, materials imported from Córdoba arrived at Montemayur Castle, including capitals dating back to the Caliphate period, one of which is now part of the collection of the Machado de Castro National Museum in Coimbra. Later, the castle would play a recognized strategic role during the Christian reconquest of the territory. (Source: www.turismodocentro.pt)

Penela Castle is a medieval fortress with an irregular plan and winding outline, stretching from north to south taking advantage of the natural cliff, so that the walls vary in height between 7 and 19 metres. It was part of the Mondego defensive line during the Christian Reconquista.

I visited in mid-June 2025 and was surprised at how much water was still running. How nice that we had a rainy winter.

Ansião is known for its tranquility, local traditions and some points of historical and cultural interest, including churches and natural landscapes that invite you to walk and discover.

Beautiful and relaxed route

Very good cafe, opens early, always fresh home-made pastries, delicious coffee. Prices are pleasing, staff is friendly.