Municipality of Guarda

History

As a fortress city and bastion of the frontier, Guarda is the highest city in Portugal, built at an average elevation slightly above one thousand meters. Founded by King D. Sancho I, who granted it its first charter on November 27th, 1199, Guarda inherits a rich and unique cultural heritage with over 800 years of history.

From the Keep Tower, the ultimate symbol of the entire defensive structure, you can enjoy unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. The Cathedral, a true icon of the city built between the 14th and 16th centuries, features constructive and aesthetic qualities that establish it as one of the greatest monuments in the history of Portuguese architecture. In the streets of the Historic Center, you can discover marks of the ancestral coexistence between Christians and Jews in one of the oldest and most significant Jewish quarters in the Beira Interior.

Culture and Leisure

Symbolizing and inheriting the dialogue between cultures and religions, Guarda is a culturally rich city where authenticity and tradition blend with creativity. The cultural offerings are high-quality and diverse, featuring shows, exhibitions, and entertainment activities not only in the Theater, Museum, and Library but also in the squares and streets of the city, transforming the entire area into a vast cultural stage.

The purity of the air here justifies its tradition as a city of health and well-being, with excellent conditions for sports and enjoying nature. Walking and cycling paths, along with quality sports and leisure facilities, make this Mountain Land one of the best places to live and visit.