Hello again, Blogonauts! In the kaleidoscope of travel tails, sometimes events move around. You can assume, then, that from here on, the calendar dates lose some relevance. Castles, in contrast, tend to stand resolutely in place. ...Until, that is, seismic catastrophes, invading armies, and/or slow abandonment and decay make it difficult for the stone walls to remain intact. Portugal (like Germany) is liberally littered with castles. Many in or near the Duoro Valley are revered for their historic significance. Thus, far from being abandoned, they have been maintained or restored for locals and visitors alike to explore. (These were built for war, and war stories aren't really pretty. But fantasies of medieval wars and sieges are fun for a moment. Otherwise the "Game of Thrones" would not have lasted a season.) As an added treat, since most castles sit high on rocky promontories, their ramparts and towers offer some of the best views of the countryside. Our rented Mercedes van carried us on a winding, multi-day odyssey from São Pedro de Moel (on the coast) up to the wine country near Belmonte and on to Alijo. Both the castles (and the villages that still cling close to them) were delightful interruptions that prevented us from becoming road weary. I have included photos of battlements found in Trancoso, Penedono, Pombal, and Marialva. They only scratch the surface in imparting how it was climbing about these stony playgrounds. And, speaking of scratching the surface, Ric********e of my traveling buddies) received a few reminiscent battle scars when his face failed to negotiate a low doorway leading into a tower. He dedicated some skin from his forehead and nose to the memories the long-dead soldiers who fought along these walls. Still at least one more entry to come, so watch for it. Blog to you later!