Portuguese Cistern
Location picture
Michelin Guide
Well worth the diversions
Civil and military monument
The Michelin Guide's review
This vast underground vaulted hall was part of the fortified castle built in 1514. It was probably a weapons room before being used as a water reservoir. Its square plan with 34m sides is composed of six naves with groined vaults resting on 25 columns and pillars. The central bay is pierced by a wide oculus through which daylight streams in, producing a surprising mirror effect by reflecting on the cistern water, imbuing the place with a strange atmosphere.
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