Belmonte's history is confused with the Portuguese nation's history. It is an old municipality, which received its charter in the 12th century and began its expansion from the lands of the Serra da Esperança, where, today, you will find your Beira Interior boutique hotel: TheVagar.
To learn more about the history and culture of these magnificent Lusitanian lands, we suggest a visit to three of the many museums you will find in the region:
Photo: Discoveries Museum | Historical Villages of Portugal
Museum of the Discoveries
The Belmonte Discoveries Museum, or Interpretation Centre "Discovering a New World", is totally dedicated to what is considered Portugal's "golden age". Here you will be able to learn about the Portuguese discoverers' navigations to Brazil, throughout five centuries. This museum uses the most modern technologies and museographic techniques in order to reach all audiences. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9am to 12.30pm and from 2pm to 5.30pm, closing only on 1st January, Easter Sunday, 1st May and 25th December.
Museu do Território - Tower House of Caria
This house was built in the early 14th century, under the ruins of what would have been a castle. The purpose was to serve as residence to the Bishops of Guarda, since Caria was, at the time, one of the most important towns of this diocese. The house has three floors and functions as the municipality's archaeological centre, where it is possible to see various pieces and finds. The space also provides meetings and conferences of scholars in the field of archaeology. It is open from Tuesday to Friday, from 9am to 12.30pm and from 2pm to 5.30pm. At weekends and during the week of 21 to 26 December, visits can take place, but by appointment.
Olive Oil Museum
Olive oil is one of Portugal's ex-libris and the Belmonte region is an expert in producing it. So, it is not surprising that there is a museum in this town totally dedicated to the liquid gold of Portugal. This museum has three floors, where you can find lots of information and fun not only about olive oil, but also about olive trees, ecology, agriculture and much more! The space also has a leisure area, cafeteria and restaurant. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9am to 12.30pm and from 2pm to 5.30pm, closing only on 1st January, Easter Sunday, 1st May and 25th December
If you feel like visiting any of these museums, don't wait any further. Make your reservation now at TheVagar and bring us your questions. We'll explain everything about these spaces, help you plan your visit and make the bookings. Best of all, when you return, we'll be waiting for you with a smile on our faces and a fire burning, ready to hear you tell us all about what you've learned!