Vila Nova da Barquinha
Camino Portugues
Services are in the town centre, but the camino doesn't enter it — it crosses the main road and the railway before heading out. Turn right at the main road to reach the historic quarter along the river, which has a pleasant park and makes a decent overnight stop.
From the river, the Castelo de Almourol is visible on its island in the middle of the Tejo. The castle was rebuilt by the Knights Templar in 1171 and is one of the most photogenic medieval fortifications in Portugal. Boat trips to the island run from the riverbank in Barquinha.
Saint Anthony is celebrated on the 13th of June.
The Castelo de Almourol sits on a small island in the Tejo and has been a defensive position since Roman times. The Templars rebuilt it as part of their defensive line along the river in the 12th century. Its isolated, fairy-tale setting has inspired legends — most famously the tale of the Moorish princess who haunts the castle at the full moon.
The camino crosses the main road and then crosses the railway before heading out of town. It does NOT enter the town. After the tracks, keep mostly straight at the roundabout. The way is well marked.
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