Castelo Branco

Article by KipperTree

15 05 2023

Castelo Branco is a small city located in the central region of Portugal, known for its historical centre, beautiful gardens, and rich cultural heritage. It is located about 220 km (136 miles) northeast of Lisbon. It is the capital of the district of Castelo Branco and has a population of around 33,000 people. 

Here are some aspects to consider when it comes to living in Castelo Branco:

Cost of living:

Castelo Branco is an affordable place to live, with a lower cost of living than many other European cities. Housing and utilities are relatively inexpensive, and you can enjoy a good quality of life without spending a lot of money.

Climate:

The climate in Castelo Branco is typically Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters. The summer months can be quite hot, with temperatures regularly reaching over 30°C (86°F), while winters are mild and relatively rainy.

Culture:

Castelo Branco is a city rich in culture and history, with a number of museums, art galleries, and cultural events throughout the year. Castelo Branco has a rich history and cultural heritage. The city's name means "White Castle," and it was named after a castle built by the Knights Templar in the 13th century. Today, the castle ruins are one of the city's main tourist attractions, along with the Jardim do Paço Episcopal, a beautiful garden that was once the residence of the bishops of Castelo Branco. www.cm-castelobranco.pt

Education:

The city has a good education system, with a range of primary, secondary, and higher education institutions. The Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco is a respected institution offering courses in a variety of subjects.

Transportation:

It is well-connected by road and rail, with good transportation links to other parts of Portugal. The city is about a 2.5-hour drive from Lisbon and about a 4-hour drive from Porto. The city also has a bus station and train station, with regular services to other cities in Portugal. 

Food:

Castelo Branco is known for its traditional cuisine, which includes dishes such as migas, a type of bread-based stew made with pork or codfish, and bucho recheado, a type of stuffed pork belly. The city is also known for its cheese, which is made from sheep's milk and has a strong flavour.

Nature: 

It is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the Serra da Estrela mountain range, which is about an hour's drive away. The city is also close to several nature reserves, such as the Serra da Malcata Natural Reserve, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Iberian lynx.

Overall, Castelo Branco is a pleasant and affordable place to live, with a rich culture, a good education system and transportation links, it also boasts a Mediterranean climate. However, it is worth noting that it is a small city, so if you are looking for a bustling metropolis with lots of entertainment options, it may not be the best fit for you.