The town of Celorico da Beira is situated close to the Estrela Mountains (Serra da Estrela). Its singularity derives from the fact that it is located in a region where the use of granite rock predominates. Granite has been used over the centuries to establish a harmonious architecture throughout the villages in this part of Portugal.

The town centre is dominated by the Castle situated at a height of 550 meters. From here one can observe the Mondego River and the town centre. The only existing tower allows one, on a clear day, to see the Guarda Cathedral.

The fortress is half a kilometre long and dates back to the reign of King Afonso Henriques and King Sancho I. It served as a defence against the invasions from neighbouring Spain. The other tower either fell or was demolished.

Its stones were then used to build the magnificent Clock tower which is one of the monuments situated in the 5 de Outubro Square. In this square one may find the town hall which in previous times served as a jail and a court house and now houses the Solar do Queijo da Serra and St. Mary’s Church founded in medieval times.

In this church one can underline the painted ceiling with figures of various saints and the tiles that date back to the 17th century. Other churches that should be visited in a walk through the town centre include St. Peter’s Church and Misercodia Church.

Walking through the town is probably the best way to admire the narrow and quiet streets where one can find windows from the Manuelian period, corbels, and doorways.