Michelin
Portuguese Cistern
Location picture
The Green Guide
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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