Discover the Majestic Castles: Top 10 Best Castles In and Around Lisbon
Lisbon, a picturesque paradise with cobblestone streets, white-domed castles, and river-view palaces, is a historical treasure trove. The city, adorned with stunning landmarks and medieval castles, instantly captivates visitors, evoking a yearning for a return. Lisbon's enchanting castles, harking back to the era of the Portuguese Monarchy, stand as alluring relics of regal history, making them must-visit attractions.
And which castles, in particular, are the best of them all? We knew you would be wondering, so without further ado, here are our picks for our favorite castles in Lisbon, Portugal, and its surrounding vicinity.
1. Castelo de São Jorge (São Jorge Castle)
São Jorge Castle, perched atop one of Lisbon's iconic seven hills, offers stunning panoramic views of the city's historic and modern neighborhoods, including the charming Alfama district located just behind the castle, with its origins dating back to the 6th century as a Visigothic fortress, later expanded by the Moors during their rule of Lisbon in the 11th century. After its conquest by D. Afonso Henriques in 1147 with the assistance of northern European crusaders, the castle served as a royal palace and was named 'São Jorge' in honor of the patron saint of England, reflecting the strong diplomatic ties of that era. Despite succumbing to the destructive 1755 earthquake, a 20th-century restoration project revitalized the castle, rebuilding 11 of its original 18 towers and introducing peaceful gardens, making it a delightful destination for visitors exploring Lisbon, Portugal.
2. Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle)
The Moorish Castle in Sintra offers stunning views from the mountains to the ocean. Dating back to the 8th century, it has a rich history. Legend has it that King Afonso Henriques, besieging Lisbon after the conquest of Santarém, entrusted Don Gil and twenty men to secretly observe Sintra's Moors to prevent surprise attacks and Lisbon Moors' entry into Sintra. They encountered the Virgin Mary on their journey, gaining courage and defeating the enemy, capturing the castle. A chapel, Our Lady of Milides ("worth one thousand"), was later built in Colares to honor this victory.
3. Castelo de Guimarães (Guimarães Castle)
Guimarães Castle, a top attraction in UNESCO World Heritage-listed, holds a special place in Portugal's history. Originally built in the 10th century by Mumadona Dias to offer refuge from Viking raids to the north and Muslim threats to the south, the castle evolved over the years. It expanded in the 11th century and, possibly, witnessed the birth of Portugal's first king, Afonso Henriques, in 1111. This castle is intricately tied to Portugal's birth, as it saw battles like the siege in 1127 and the Battle of São Mamede in 1128, where Afonso established himself as the nation's ruler after defeating his mother and her lover. Following his triumph over the Moors at the Battle of Ourique in 1139, Afonso was proclaimed the King of Portugal by his nobles and troops.
4. Castelo de Almourol (Almourol Castle)
Almourol Castle, located on an island in the River Tagus, is a captivating monument from the Christian Reconquest era. Its unique position and historical importance make it one of Portugal's most distinctive castles. Built under the name Almorolan, it was absorbed into the Knights Templar's protective domain when Christians arrived in 1129, led by Master Gualdim Pais. Reconstruction began in 1171, as indicated by an inscription at the castle's entrance. Almourol Castle, along with Tomar, Zêzere, and Cardiga castles, formed a vital part of the defensive fortifications along the River Tagus during medieval times.
5.Castelo de Óbidos ( Óbidos Castle)
Óbidos, possibly named after the Latin term "oppidum" denoting a citadel or fortified city, has a rich history. It was initially a Roman settlement until the 5th century and later, in the 8th century, became a Moorish fortification atop a hill. In 1148, it was conquered by Portugal's first king, Afonso Henriques, undergoing further modifications in the 14th century. The city's main attractions include its historic center, with a magnificent medieval castle, all easily explored on foot. As you wander through the labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets, you'll encounter lively squares, charming cafes, quaint shops, local craft markets, and whitewashed houses adorned with flowers and colorful paintings, with Rua Direita being a standout street not to be missed.
6. Castelo de Leiria (Leiria Castle)
Visitors to Leiria Castle approached through the Albacara Gateway, will discover a well-preserved defensive fortress with notable historical landmarks. These include the Church of Nossa Senhora da Pena, the former Royal Palaces, and the Keep, offering splendid vistas of the surrounding countryside. The castle's medieval architecture reflects its origins, as it was captured by Portugal's first king, Afonso Henriques, in 1135. He commissioned a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Mercy and entrusted the castle to Paio Guterres, its first governor. In the late 12th century, King Sancho I fortified the castle walls, securing the region for Christian crusaders.
7. Castelo de Évora Monte (Evoramonte Castle)
The Castle of Evoramonte, located in the civil parish of Evoramonte, municipality of Estremoz, Portugal, has a history dating back to 1160 during the Gothic period and underwent later Manueline-style expansions. It gained historical significance as the site where the Concession of Evoramonte, ending the Liberal Wars between Queen Maria II's forces and Miguel of Portugal's Absolutist armies, was signed on May 26, 1834. Since 1910, it has held the status of a Portuguese National monument.
8. Castelo de Alcanede (Alcanede Castle)
Originally constructed in ancient times and later rebuilt during the 13th century, the castle endured significant damage during the earthquake of 1531. In 1954, restoration efforts were undertaken to strengthen the preserved walls, ramparts, and merlons, as well as parts of the keep and the Barbican. Adjacent to the main entrance, a noteworthy sculpture depicts three castles and an eagle.
9. Castelo do Marvão ( Marvão Castle)
The Castle of Marvão, situated in the civil parish of Santa Maria de Marvão within the Portalegre municipality, is a remarkably preserved medieval fortress. Originally commissioned by D. Dinís in the late 18th century, although most of what stands today reflects modifications made during the 17th century, the castle is perched on a rocky outcrop at the western edge of Marvão village. The Keep offers breathtaking views of the castle's various enclosures, including battlemented towers and cliffside watchtowers. You can also stroll along the city walls, enjoying commanding vistas of Marvão, the Serra de São Mamede, Serra da Estrela, Castelo Branco, and the Spanish mountain ranges.
10. Torre de Belém ( Belém Tower)
Constructed between 1514 and 1520 in the distinctive Manuelino style by Portuguese architect and sculptor Francisco de Arruda, the Belém Tower (Torre de Belém) earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1983. Originally built on the northern bank of the Tagus River for defense purposes, it later served as a lighthouse and customs house. Situated near the Jerónimos Monastery, we recommend exploring both historic sites on the same day.
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