Citânia de Briteiros

A Treasure of Prehistory in Portugal

In the heart of Minho, near the city of Guimarães, lies one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in Portugal: the Citânia de Briteiros.

This ancient Iron Age settlement is an impressive testament to the life of our ancestors and a must-see for those who love history, archaeology and stunning landscapes.

What is the Citânia de Briteiros?

The Citânia de Briteiros is an ancient Celtic hill fort dating back to the 6th century BC to the 1st century AD, before and during the Romanization of the Iberian Peninsula.

This type of fortified settlement was typical of the proto-historic communities in the northwest of the Peninsula. Situated on top of Monte de São Romão, the Citânia stands out not only for its historical importance, but also for its stunning views over the Ave River valley.

With approximately 24 hectares, the site is one of the largest and best preserved in the country. It reveals how ancient populations lived, organized their communities and defended themselves.

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Exploring the Archaeological Site

1. The Ruins of the Dwellings
The Citânia is made up of ruins of more than 150 circular and oval structures, which were typical dwellings of the time.
Many of them are organized into “blocks”, demonstrating a surprising urban organization.
2. The Walls
Protection was essential for these communities.
The ruins of three lines of strategically built walls show how the inhabitants defended themselves from potential invaders.

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3. The Sanitation System
One of the most impressive features of the Citânia is the advanced sanitation system.
It is possible to see traces of drainage channels and sidewalks, revealing a degree of sophistication unexpected for the time.
4. The Museum of Castro Culture
The visit to the site can be complemented by the Museum of Castro Culture, located nearby.
The museum displays artifacts found during the excavations, such as ceramics, tools and ornaments, providing a complete overview of the way of life of the ancient inhabitants.

The History of the Excavations
The Citânia de Briteiros was discovered and excavated at the end of the 19th century by Francisco Martins Sarmento, one of the pioneers of archaeology in Portugal.
His work was crucial to the preservation and understanding of the site. Today, the Sociedade Martins Sarmento continues to preserve and promote this important heritage.
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Why Visit the Citânia de Briteiros?
1. Historical Heritage: It is one of the most important examples of the Castro culture and the transition to Romanization in Portugal.
2. Nature and Landscapes: Its location on top of a hill offers stunning views over the Ave River valley and the surrounding mountains.
3. Culture and Education: A visit is a unique opportunity to learn about the ancient history of Portugal and to connect with the country’s cultural roots.
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Visiting Tips
• How to Get There: Citânia is about 15 km from Guimarães and can be reached by car or through organized tours.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal, due to the mild climate and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
• Prepare yourself: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the archaeological site requires walking.
• Opening Hours and Prices: Check the visiting hours on the Sociedade Martins Sarmento website, as they may vary throughout the year.
Summary
Citânia de Briteiros is more than just an archaeological site; it is a journey through time that allows us to explore the origins of our culture and reflect on how ancient societies lived and prospered.
If you are looking for a destination that combines history, culture and nature, Citânia de Briteiros is an unforgettable choice.
 

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