Dating from the first century BC, the Castro of Monte Mozinho is a fortified ancient settlement in the municipality of Penafiel, Portugal. The site is also the largest Roman Castro in the Iberian Peninsula, covering an area of 22 hectares. Occupied until the 5th century, the settlement comprises circular castro dwellings and square Roman houses encompassed by two lines of fortification walls.
Founded in the first century BC, the Castro of Monte Mozinho is the largest Roman Castro in the Iberian Peninsula
Archaeological excavations in the area started in 1943, and resumed in 1974, following a few decades of interruption. The unearthed archaeological finds include ceramics dating from the Iron Age and pots, glass, millstones, coins, and metallic elements from the Roman period. There were also silver jewelry and bronze fibulas, all displayed in the Municipal Museum of Penafiel.
At the highest point of the settlement, stands out an ellipsoid courtyard that functioned as a public space. Various social events such as games, assemblies, and markets would take place there. Additionally, the two turrets at the entrance to this courtyard used to carry two statues of Galician warriors, currently displayed in the Municipal Museum of Penafiel.
