The Centro Region is a region in central Portugal, and its capital is Coimbra. Other cities inside this region are Aveiro, Viseu, Leiria, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Figueira da Foz, Guarda, Pinhel, Mealhada, Pombal, Tomar, Abrantes, Torres Vedras, Torres Novas, Peniche, Águeda and Caldas da Rainha. It is one of seven Regions of Portugal (NUTS II subdivisions). This is one of the regions of Europe, considered by the European Union for statistical and geographical purposes. 

Along this region’s mountainous border with Spain are a series of fortresses and castles that once protected the country from its many invaders. Over the centuries, Moors and Christians, Spaniards and Portuguese have all tried to take these villages, but their higher elevations usually gave them a distinct advantage. Here, the more than one dozen fortified frontier villages beckon today’s visitors to come explore a 900-year history--full of the heroism, epic battles and romance upon which Portugal struggled to become a nation. Each village has a fascinating tale of its own to tell. All of their valiant efforts paid off. Today Portugal boasts the longest-standing border in all of Europe.

In the fortress town of Almeida, a walk through the narrow cobbled streets can lead a visitor to the ruins of a once mighty 12-pointed fortress here. One of Portugal’s many Pousadas—an historic property turned into an inn—is located in Almeida. In the town of Castelo Rodrigo, a memorial stone marks the place of a fierce battle in 1664, and visitors can view the remains of the castle, its tower and a palace here. The town has a small, Gothic church. Just near Castelo Mendo stands a beautiful bridge built by the Romans.