The Lines of Torres Vedras were part of the future Duke of Wellington's strategy to protect Lisbon from occupation by Napoleon's troops, following the Anglo-Portuguese victories in the battles of Roliça and Vimeiro. Two centuries later, they have become a symbol of convergence between municipalities, institutions and other entities, developing cultural, educational and tourist projects under the umbrella of the Historical Route of the Lines of Torres Vedras.
A recent example of this cooperation was the 1st Meeting of Napoleonic Itineraries Portugal, co-coordinated by the RHLT, in conjunction with the Regional Tourism Entities of Lisbon, Centro and Porto and Norte, the CIM Coimbra Region and with the support of Turismo de Portugal. Under the motto ‘Step out of your fort’, the meeting was an invitation to reflect, appreciate and share knowledge.
We also tell you about the National Day of the Lines and the Wellington Honour 2025 Awards, of which one was presented to the European Federation of Napoleonic Cities, represented by its honorary president, Charles Bonaparte, a descendant of Napoleon. Although the award evokes the name of Wellington, its current symbolism is that of the union between nations that, once adversaries, are now linked by culture and memory.
This edition also invites you on a journey through the RHLT territory, where the preservation of the past is combined with innovation and sustainable tourism projects. With the strength of a common heritage, we value a territory that belongs to all, keeping alive the memory of the battles of Roliça and Vimeiro and the Lines of Torres Vedras, symbols of the courage, resistance and resourcefulness that shaped the history of Portugal.