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Nossa Senhora da Graça Fort or Lippe Fort It is a jewel of military architecture, rising upon the north hill of the city. This fort was built in the 18th century, in order to complete the defence line of Elvas fortified square. Located in a high spot, this fort was occupied by Spanish artillery during Linhas de Elvas battle in 659. It has four bastions, four ravelins and several gaps, so that its canons could beat the enemies as they approached. Graça Fort is constituted by three defensive lines, including in its interior several dependencies such as barracks, chapel, bunkers, the governor house, a big cistern, cannons, among many others. Important part of the Elvas defensive strategy, a town that since early times has been an important strategically defensive point, the Graça Fort was built in the place where before was located the ancient Santa Maria da Graça Chapel. The Fort is classified as National Heritage since 1910, yet it is not presently opened to the public.
