Archaeologists have begun a new phase of excavations at the Castelo da Nave site in Alferce, Monchique, in a bid to uncover more about the hilltop fortification and determine whether it could be linked to the historic castellum of Munchite.
The archaeological campaign, which runs until 31 July, is being led by Monchique Council at Cerro do Castelo da Nave and marks the first excavation to focus on the Islamic fortification located at the summit of the hill.
The aim is to assess the site's archaeological potential, and to establish the layout and extent of what is known as the Castelo da Nave.
Located around two kilometres south-west of the Nave quarry in Monchique, the site was first identified in the 1940s and was initially believed to date from the Roman period. However, archaeological surveys carried out in 2002 and 2005 challenged that interpretation, indicating that the settlement was primarily occupied during the 11th and 12th centuries.
According to Monchique Council, the site is now thought to have been a rural Islamic settlement featuring a small defensive fortification at its highest point.
Researchers are also investigating the possibility that the structure may correspond to the castellum of Munchite, a fortress mentioned in historical accounts following the Christian reconquest of Silves in 1189.
The excavation is expected to enhance scientific understanding of Monchique's archaeological and historical heritage and provide new insights into the region's medieval past.
An open day is also planned, with the date yet to be announced, giving the public the opportunity to visit the excavation site and view the archaeological remains uncovered during the campaign.
Source: Barlavento
Photo credit: Elisabete Rodrigues
