Seen from Porto, Portugal, the Serra do Pilar Monastery crowns a hilltop in Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto’s across-the-river neighbor. The convent and its round church date to the 15th century. If it looks a lot like a fort, that should be no surprise: During the siege of 1832, that’s exactly what it became. In fact, it’s still occupied by the Portuguese army. Guided tours are available…with a guide and an army officer!
The monastery and some of the surrounding area are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.
