CASTELO DE GUIMARAES

The Castle of Guimarães is located in the city of the same name, in the district of Braga, Portugal. This monument is closely linked to the origins and independence of Portugal and is popularly known as the cradle of the nation. It was declared a National Monument in 2007 and was informally selected as one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.

Its origins date back to the 10th century, when Countess Mumadona Dias ordered its construction to protect the Monastery of São Mamede, which she had founded, as well as the local population from enemy incursions. Later, Count Henry of Burgundy chose Guimarães as his residence and reinforced the original structure with new walls and the imposing Keep Tower.

Over time, the defensive perimeter was expanded and strengthened. The castle was the setting for the conflict between the forces of Afonso Henriques and his mother, Teresa of León. Afonso’s victory marked a decisive moment in the formation of Portuguese identity.

During the reign of King Ferdinand I, major defensive works were carried out around the town, including a wall approximately two kilometers long, with eight towers and eight gates, in response to the siege by Castilian troops. However, from the 15th century onward, the castle gradually lost its military function. In the 19th century, under the reign of King Luís I, it was classified as a First-Class Historical Monument.

The castle’s layout resembles the shape of a shield. Its walls are reinforced by four main towers. The western entrance is flanked by two towers, as is the eastern gate. In the center of the courtyard stands the Keep Tower, which has a square plan. Today, the castle is well preserved and open to the public.

For those passionate about history and architectural detail, Aedes Ars offers this exclusive model of the castle, made with thousands of small bricks—ideal for collectors or as a unique decorative piece.