Awe-inspiring Castles in Portugal

11/26/2023

11/24/2023

Feira Castle

Officially known as the Castle of Santa Maria da Feira, Feira Castle is another one of northern Portugal’s imposing castles. Built in the 11th century, Feira Castle is named after the Santa Maria Fair, one of the oldest fairs in Portugal. Legend has it this medieval castle was built on the site of a temple dedicated to a pagan god. Two bell towers feature 17th century glazed tiles.

11/24/2023

Guimarães Castle

Guimarães Castle is the most important medieval castle in northern Portugal. According to legend, the first king of Portugal was born here. The town of Guimarães is considered the birthplace of Portuguese independence, making the castle even more important. This 10th century castle has eight 28-meter (92-foot) high crenellated towers.

11/19/2023

Castle of the Moors

Sitting atop a cliff in central Portugal’s Sintra, the Castle of the Moors dates back to the 10th century when the Muslims conquered the Iberian Peninsula, though it itself was later conquered by Portuguese rulers. The block walls encircling the castle and its towers are reminiscent of the Great Wall of China, with the same stunning views, which, in this case, extend to the Atlantic Ocean.

11/16/2023

Sao Jorge Castle

Sao Jorge Castle, also known as St. George Castle, was built by the Moors in the 11th century to protect them from Christian invaders. In the 12th century, it was conquered by the man who became the first king of Portugal and turned it into a royal palace. The massive complex sits on a hill overlooking Lisbon and has become one of the most famous tourist attractions in Portugal. The castle has been restored, though the royal palace is still in ruins.

11/15/2023

Leiria Castle

Leiria Castle was once a medieval fortress, one whose ownership changed hands between the Moors and Christians a couple of times. Later one it was turned into a royal palace. The complex is known for its magnificent Gothic arches leading to a balcony with views of Leiria and the countryside below. Today it is a venue for cultural events in Leiria in central Portugal.

11/08/2023

Montemor-o-Velho Castle

Montemor-o-Velho Castle in central Portugal is one of the most strategic medieval fortresses in the country. The site was originally occupied by Romans, with the Moors, Christians and Catholics later fighting over it. Ruling families also fought over possession of the castle. Crenellated double oval walls and a few towers remain today. Some of the towers can be climbed, providing visitors with stunning views of rice fields and the Mondego Valley below.