Idanha

Idanha-a-Nova grew in the frontier country of Beira, not far from the older settlement of Idanha-a-Velha. In 1187 the Templar Gualdim Pais built a castle here, and Sancho I granted a charter in 1201 to encourage settlement and defense. Afonso II confirmed it in 1219, distinguishing the new Idanha from the old. As the new town grew and the older place declined, Manuel I granted Idanha-a-Nova another charter in 1510. Its castle was recorded by Duarte de Armas in his book of fortresses.