A huge defensive structure of walls and bastions embraces Marvão granting it the uniqueness of a medieval village. Built for defensive reasons, it is the only Portuguese fort that maintained its strategic value well into to the nineteenth century, presenting a rich historical and military heritage. As part of the first defensive line of the Portuguese territory, Marvão participated in all national wars against external enemies.
Lying in the heart of the Natural Park of Serra de São Mamede, barely untouched by the human presence, it offers an important set of natural habitats. The geological diversity of granite, limestone and quartz combined with the altitude and orientation of the area, give rise to the existence of various microclimates which are home to varied fauna and flora.
The many rural roads that crisscross the municipality of Marvão, offer excellent opportunities for walking, cycling or horse riding.
“In the valley to the south of the Castle, the ruins of the Roman city of Ammaia
and its museum are well worth a visit.”
From the old bridge crossing the river Sever you can contemplate the surrounding landscape, a pool and river beach, as well as enjoying a good meal at open air.
Out of the excellent regional cuisine, we could recommend goat, lamb, pork and game dishes. From the deserts category: apple boleimas, fintos cakes, rice pudding, escalfados, rosquilhas and an endless variety of sweets made with chestnuts. The local municipality organizes gastronomic events dedicated to seasonal products throughout the year, but the biggest attraction is the annual Chestnut Fair, every second weekend of November. Various other initiatives are present at these Gastronomic Fairs, from cultural events to the degustation and selling of honey, liqueurs and dried fruit.
We entice you with a handful of tempting offers because Marvão is authentic and is not meant to be just an article you read through, or a picture you glance at. Live the experience at your own pace and rhythm. The rest is up to you and depends very much where your senses lead you!
To find out more about the cultural and gastronomic life of Marvão
Once in Marvão, go to the Tourist Office where you will find all the information you need. We recommend buying the book “Marvão – Territory – Products – Activities”, which explains the history of the county and might be the most thrilling starting point to your new adventure!
What to bring
Marvão can be quite hot in the day but with cold nights, we recommend to anyone who will watch the concerts that bring hats for the sun, range, comfortable shoes, sweaters or shawls.Where to eat
Learn moreUseful Contacts
Medical Emergency 112
Tourist Office of Marvão 245 909 131
District Hospital Dr. José Maria Grande 245 331 000
Marvão fire department 245 920 135 | 6
GNR
Santo António das Areias 245 993 617
Taxis
Beirã 245 992 265
Galegos 245 964 231
Marvão 245909002 / 965065819
Portagem 245 993 233
Santo António das Areias 245 992 141
S. Salvador da Aramenha 245 993 171
Pharmaceutical posts
Marvão 245 993 383
Santo António das Areias 245 992 237
Porto da Espada 245 964 113
Public Transportation
Belos in Santo António das Areias 245 992 105