Fodor's Expert Review Castelo de Elvas

This castle's battlements offer a sweeping view of Elvas and its fortifications. There's been a fortress here since Roman times, though this structure's oldest elements were built by the Moors and expanded by a handful of Portuguese monarchs. Touching the border with Spain, it was always on the front line of battles between the two countries. In 1807 it was taken by Napoléon's troops, but the English and the Portuguese quickly fought them off. Despite all the battles it faced, the castle remains in remarkably good condition, thanks to its solid stone walls. There's a small bar inside serving light meals and drinks that's open until late. It gets especially busy in the summer when they set up tables outside.