Of ancient origin, Castelo Branco was
refounded by the Templars in the early 13th century. Occupying
a low hill at the centre of flat lands just 18 km from the Spanish
frontier, it has been known for its embroidered colchas or bed-spreads
since the late 1800s, a fine range of which can be seen in the
local museum. With its broad avenues, large squares and a pleasant
air of prosperity, the town is a very good base from which to
explore the border region of Central Portugal. What to see: Castelo Branco's top attraction is without
doubt the extraordinary Episcopal Gardens beside the former
bishops' palace. Laid out in the mid-18th century, the gardens
are a rare sight, planted with a host of profane little granite
statues amidst well-trimmed boxed hedges and orange trees. The
museum inside the palace houses 16th-century tapestries and
fine examples of Portuguese primitive art. Dating back to the
13th century, the Church of São Miguel served as the
town's cathedral from 1771-1881 before the bishopric was extinguished.
Nearby: The granite village of Monsanto is a short drive
to the north-east of Castelo Branco. Squeezed up against a slope
on an extremely steep hill below a square-built fortress, Monsanto
was voted Portugal's 'most typical village' in 1938.
