One of the world's oldest active armies dates back to 1128

Science · Published 20 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: The Portuguese Army is not just a modern defense force; it is a living lineage of medieval warfare. From the knights of the Reconquista to the professionalized ranks of today, its evolution reflects centuries of shifting sovereignty, maritime expansion, and the transition from feudal levies to a modern volunteer force.

The Portuguese Army traces its remote origins to the 12th century, specifically the military forces of the County of Portugal. A seminal moment occurred on June 24, 1128, at the Battle of São Mamede, which allowed Afonso Henriques to claim independence from the Kingdom of León. This early period was characterized by the 'Hoste'—a collective of military contingents provided by landlords, the Church, and various military orders like the Knights Templars. These forces were often supplemented by 'latrones' (irregular riders) and, during key sieges, by Crusaders traveling from Northern Europe.

The 15th and 16th centuries marked a shift toward global expansion and structural complexity. The army supported the Portuguese Empire's maritime reach, serving as boarding and landing forces in campaigns across Africa, Asia, and the Americas. In 1570, King Sebastian established the 'Ordenanças,' a nationwide militia-type organization that provided a standardized framework for training and mobilization. This system, which organized the population into 250-man companies, remained a cornerstone of Portuguese military structure until the 19th century.

Following the 60-year Iberian Union with Spain, the Restoration of Independence in 1640 forced a total military rebuild. The new organization, approved in 1642, featured a sophisticated three-line system: paid professional troops (the first line), auxiliary reserve troops (the second line), and the rebuilt Ordenanças (the third line). This structure persisted largely unchanged until 1837. Today, the force is entirely professional, having abolished conscription in 2004. As of 2014, the Army employed 16,111 personnel, including 5,667 career members and 10,444 volunteers, maintaining a presence in international missions across NATO, the UN, and the EU.

The evolution of the Army reflects a transition from feudal obligations to a modern state apparatus. While early forces relied on the 'mesnadas' of landlords and the 'cavaleiros vilãos' of municipalities, the 17th-century reforms introduced specific roles for artillery and a centralized Council of War. This progression from a medieval knightly host to a professionalized volunteer force highlights the enduring nature of Portuguese national defense. Holding the exclusive four-star rank of General, the Chief of Staff of the Army (CEME) leads the Portuguese Army.

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