Closure Alert: Torres Vedras Castle is at Risk of Ruin

Why Torres Vedras Castle is at Risk

Due to succession of storms and heavy rain, we come to alert that the Torres Vedras Castle is at Risk of Ruin.

All over Portugal, there is a risk of landslides and mudslides. Historic castles, with thousands of years behind them, are even more susceptible to structural degradation and erosion over time. Torres Vedras Castle is at risk for a potential structural collapse, due to accumulation of water in the castle’s slopes.

The castle walls have serious fissures. Therefore, no one can pass near the castle by foot or car.

After two landslides caused by storms, the vice-president of the city of Torres Vedras has said that the slope/ hillside of Torres Vedras Castle is at risk of collapse. Falling trees are also a concern. According to him, trees on one side of the hillside are already falling.

Can I go to Torres Vedras Castle?

No. Due to the danger of collapse, an access road to the castle and the Bang Venue concert hall have been closed as a precaution.

A team of geologists is now evaluating the fissures of the castle’s walls and monitoring the situation. At their recommendation, some trees were removed from the castle’s slopes to reduce the weight on the soil. Additionally, a drainage system was installed to remove excess water from the soil.

While the Torres Vedras Castle is assessed and secured for visits, see more castles in Portugal here.