Castelo Novo lies in the amphitheatre formed by the Serra da Gardunha. The predominantly medieval townscape, with its narrow, winding streets, defines the character of this historic village. It is classified as a Conjunto de Interesse PĂşblico (CIP); its national classification was established by Portaria n.Âş 606/2020. In the village and the parish of Castelo Novo, you can encounter a range of historical themes, from medieval architectural history to archaeological traces from Roman times.
Lanes, Squares and Architectural History
The Casa da Câmara, the village’s most important public building, stands in the main square. The building has two storeys. The Chafariz de D. João V was built on its main façade and is also two storeys high. The setting of the square, building and fountain makes these two structures a tangible starting point for exploring Castelo Novo’s historic architecture.
The Castelo of Castelo Novo was built in the 12th century and badly damaged in the 1755 earthquake. The Igreja Matriz de Castelo Novo is dated to a different period, the 18th century. The Lagariça is also part of the area’s cultural history: this large wine press, carved into the rock, was used by the village’s inhabitants for centuries. The Núcleo Museológico de Castelo Novo displays, among other things, metal and ceramic objects.
Roman History and Archaeological Context
The Roman Ruins of Quinta do Ervedal are located in the parish of Castelo Novo. Archaeological finds identify the site as a Roman vicus, inhabited from the beginning of the 1st century AD until the 6th or 7th century. Since 2023, the site has been classified as a SĂtio de Interesse PĂşblico. In 2025, arrangements for interpreting the site for public access were still in development. Check current access options before visiting.
The area’s history therefore spans different periods: the predominantly medieval street plan and the long settlement history of the Roman vicus. The ruins of Quinta do Ervedal are a distinct archaeological point of interest in the parish and should not be confused with the buildings in the main square.
On Foot, by Bike and by the Water
The PR11 walking trail passes the Ribeira de Alpreade, Cabeço da Forca, the castle, Capela de Santa Ana, the Lagariça, Casa da Câmara and the Pelourinho. Its route therefore takes in both natural sites and historic buildings. The Caminho do Moleiro has a different focus: it runs along the banks of the Alpreade River and recalls the importance of the old rye mills that are still visible. Comparing the two routes, the PR11 foregrounds its named landmarks, while the Caminho do Moleiro focuses on the riverside and the landscape of mills.
There is also a designated cycling route through the village: the Grande Percurso Ciclável AHP passes through Castelo Novo. Check trail conditions and signage before setting out; you should also check current conditions before hiking. At Praia Fluvial de Castelo Novo, visitors can swim in the Ribeira de Alpreade beside its cascades.
Local Cuisine and Travel Planning
Arroz tostado is a specialty of Castelo Novo, and tigelada is a traditional dessert. The Festival de MĂşsica Antiga was held in Castelo Novo in 2023 and 2024. If you would like to plan your trip around the festival, check the dates for your chosen year.
The historic village’s tourist office is located at Largo da Bica N1, 6230-160. Visitors arriving by train can request a free transfer there. The request must be made at least 24 hours in advance; check availability before travelling.
If you are looking for a hotel for your stay in Castelo Novo, first decide what matters most to you: the medieval townscape and its buildings, a walking trail, a cycling trip or the riverside landscape. When comparing specific offers, check the location and terms for your travel dates so that the accommodation suits your planned stay.
Discover more destinations: SĂŁo Miguel De Acha, Penha Garcia, Unhais Da Serra, Alcaria, Quartos, Ladoeiro, Castelo Branco, Paul.
Go to the main travel overview: Castelo Branco.
