Event Details
The 22nd Cerco de Almeida – Bringing History Back to Life
From 28 to 30 August 2026, the star-shaped fortress of Almeida in Portugal's Beira Interior region transforms once again into a living stage of the early 19th century. The 22nd Cerco de Almeida is Portugal's largest Napoleonic reenactment event, immersing visitors in the dramatic events of the Third French Invasion of 1810. Thousands of visitors from across Europe travel each year to this small border town near Spain to experience history up close.
The History Behind the Event
In August 1810, French forces under Marshal Ney besieged the fortress of Almeida, one of Portugal's key defensive strongholds along the Spanish border. On 28 August 1810, a devastating explosion in the fortress's powder magazine, triggered by a French bombardment, sealed the fall of the town. This catastrophic moment, described at the time as a "volcanic eruption," is one of the most dramatic episodes of the Peninsular War. The annual reenactment honours the courage of the Portuguese garrison and recalls this pivotal moment in European military history.
Highlights
- Three days of Napoleonic reenactments through the streets and squares of the fortress town
- Night Battle of the Cerco de Almeida at the Fosso do Revelim do Paiol (grandstand tickets at €2 per person, ages 12 and over)
- Military demonstrations involving the Portuguese Army and international reenactment groups from Portugal, France, the United Kingdom and other countries
- Historical market with craftspeople and traders in period costume
- Live music shows featuring well-known Portuguese artists
- Casa do Traje: costume hire for visitors wishing to dress for the period
- Official commemorative coin of the 22nd edition available to collect
- After the battles, visitors are invited to mingle with the soldiers on the ground
Program
The program opens on Friday, 28 August at 5:30 PM with the official inauguration inside the fortress. Reenactments, market activities and workshops take place across all three days. The emotional highlight is the Night Battle, watchable from dedicated grandstands. The event closes on Sunday, 30 August at 8:00 PM. A full detailed program will be published by the Município de Almeida shortly before the event.
Tickets & Entry
Entry to the event is free of charge. Grandstand seats for the Night Battle are available through the Museu Histórico-Militar de Almeida at €2 per person (ages 12 and over). Contact: phone +351 271 571 229 or email [email protected].
Visitor Tips
- Almeida is located in the Beira Interior region, close to the Spanish border. The nearest larger city is Guarda, approximately 30 km away.
- Accommodation in and around Almeida is limited; booking well in advance is strongly recommended.
- The fortress is best explored on foot; comfortable shoes are advised.
- Wearing 19th-century period costume is encouraged; costumes can be hired on site at the Casa do Traje.
- Visitors from Spain can reach Almeida easily via the Vilar Formoso border crossing.
- The event is ideal for families and history enthusiasts of all ages.
