"Castelo Branco. An old town with a young spirit." Castelo Branco by Branco

Castelo Branco was refounded by the Templars in the 13th century. In 1214, when Pedro Alvites was master of the Templars in Portugal, Afonso II granted them the lands of Cardosa, thus laying the foundation for what is now the city of Castelo Branco. 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 where we can explore the border region of Central Portugal.