Discover Porto de Mós: A Journey Through Time

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Porto de Mós

Duration: 2 hours

Languages: English

Guru: Kevin

Registered on 23 December 2024

My name is Kevin, and I am a passionate historian who grew up in this charming town in the heart of Portugal. My love for history led me to earn a degree in History followed by a Master’s in Early Modern History at the University of Coimbra. In 2024, I was privileged to complete my PhD, focusing on the fascinating presence of Portugal and Spain in Asia, in the 16th and 17th centuries. While pursuing my academic career, I always stayed connected to the Central Region of Portugal—especially Porto de Mós. Over the years, I’ve authored and edited six books on local history, covering topics from medieval times to the 20th century. Now I’m excited to share my knowledge and love for this town with visitors from around the world. Join me on this walking tour and together we’ll explore the rich history, hidden stories, and unique charm of Porto de Mós. I can’t wait to meet you and help you uncover the secrets of this special place!

Free booking and cancellation

Pay-what-you-wish tour, no set price, booking and cancellation are free

Tour description

This tour takes you on a fascinating journey through the history of Portugal, from the medieval origins of the Kingdom in the mid-12th century to the transformative era of the First World War.

The tour begins at the iconic castle that defines the town's character and ends at a historic building that once housed a coal power plant.

Meeting Point: The Castle Parking Area
We’ll start our visit at the castle, where you’ll delve into the monument’s rich history. Originally a small medieval fortress, it was part of an extensive defense network of the emerging kingdom of Portugal. You’ll be introduced to intriguing questions and enigmas surrounding its history, from its early days to the restoration efforts of the 20th century, during the Portuguese dictatorship (1928-74).

Continuation: The town
As we descend towards the Municipal Garden, you’ll uncover the stories of Porto de Mós, including its five historic churches—though only two remain visible today. Through its architectural and historical landmarks, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the town’s rich heritage, stories and traditions.

Final Stop: The "Central das Artes"
The tour concludes at the building that once housed a coal power plant in the 1930s. Here, you’ll learn about this vital chapter in the town's industrial history and discover the unique Portuguese cars of that era, the iconic IPA.

For entering the castle, each visitor will have to cover their own entrance fee. For adults: €1,80. (€0,90 if over 65 or under 25. Children up to 6 years old enter for free.)

Highlights

What will we see on this tour?

Meeting point:

R. do Castelo 3, 2480 Porto de Mós, Portugal

The tour will start at the parking lot of the Castle of Porto de Mós, near the entrance of the monument. I will be carrying a green backpack

Ticket not included

Castelo de Porto de Mós

Inside the castle walls, visitors will delve into the rich history of Portugal, spanning from its foundation as an independent kingdom in the 12th century to the era of dictatorship in the 20th century. This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the monument, not only uncovering its history but also shedding light on the enigmas and challenges faced by historians today in interpreting its vibrant past.

Free entry

Igreja de São João Baptista (Porto de Mós)

The Church of John the Baptist is a fascinating enigma. From its medieval entrance to its distinctly Baroque bell tower—never completed to its intended height—it stands as a monument that vividly reflects the significant shifts in community history. Here visitors can also gain insight into the lives of noble families of the past, explore the surrounding buildings, and discover some of their more discreet yet intriguing features.

Outside visit

Praça da República

In the heart of the town, visitors will discover some of the most iconic examples of 20th-century local architecture, including the town council building and the courthouse. But more importantly, this area holds hidden layers of history beneath your feet. The square stands on the site of a former church, whose story you’ll uncover through images and detailed descriptions during the visit.

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours don't have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end the amount they consider appropriate (amounts usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).