Centum Cellas

Portugal - Castelo Branco

Centum Cellas, also referred to as Centum Cellæ, Centum Celli, or Centum Cœli (and in Portuguese: Centocelas), is a Roman villa rustica that dates back to the 1st century AD, located in the Mount of Santo Antão in Belmonte, Castelo Branco District.

The Centum Cellas Tower in Colmeal da Torre is perhaps the most enigmatic building in the municipality. Its purpose has been the subject of different interpretations over the years: temple, prison, praetorium of a Roman encampment, an inn, a Roman villa... 

According to studies after the excavations in the 1990s, it was thought to be a 1st century Roman villa belonging to Lucius Caecilius and his descendent who were farmers and tin miners. The tower had two storeys. There area also traces of other buildings.

The castle has little in the way of amenities, there is limited parking by a side road and a simple sign with basic information about the site.

Note: Always verify current access conditions and any travel advisories before planning your visit.