Portugal, a country rich in history and culture, is dotted with castles that have stood the test of time. These castles, set against picturesque landscapes, offer a glimpse into Portugal’s past, from the age of conquests to the era of discoveries. Here’s a guide to 12 must-visit castles in Portugal, each with its unique story and allure.
1. Castelo de São Jorge, Lisbon
- Description: Overlooking Lisbon, Castelo de São Jorge is a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. Its walls and ramparts reflect centuries of battles and sieges, inviting visitors to step back in time.
- Location: Central Lisbon.
2. Óbidos Castle, Óbidos
- Description: This medieval castle, now a charming hotel, is nestled within the cobbled streets of Óbidos. Its robust walls and picturesque setting make it a journey back to medieval times.
- Location: Óbidos, Leiria district.
3. Almourol Castle, Vila Nova da Barquinha
- Description: Majestically rising from a small island in the Tagus River, Almourol Castle offers a serene, almost mythical sight. Dating back to the 12th century, it played a significant role in the Reconquista.
- Location: Near Tomar.
4. Guimarães Castle, Guimarães
- Description: Symbolizing the nation’s foundation, Guimarães Castle is a well-preserved medieval structure, offering insights into the early days of Portugal as a nation.
- Location: Guimarães, Braga district.
5. Monsanto Castle, Monsanto
- Description: Set on a rocky cliff, Monsanto Castle integrates with surrounding boulders, providing breathtaking views of the landscape and showcasing human resilience and ingenuity.
- Location: Near Castelo Branco.
6. Castelo de Marvão, Marvão
- Description: Perched atop a high ridge, Castelo de Marvão is a strategic sentinel overlooking the Alentejo plains, with well-preserved walls and towers echoing its historical importance.
- Location: Marvão, Portalegre district.
7. Belmonte Castle, Belmonte
- Description: Rich in Jewish heritage, Belmonte Castle showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, with stunning views and a significant place in Portuguese history.
- Location: Belmonte, Castelo Branco district.
8. Palmela Castle, Palmela
- Description: Palmela Castle, a Moorish-era fortress, offers stunning views of the Sado River and Arrábida Hills. Its towering walls and ramparts speak of its strategic significance.
- Location: South of Lisbon.
9. Montemor-o-Novo Castle, Montemor-o-Novo
- Description: Overlooking Montemor-o-Novo, this castle blends ruins with well-preserved sections, offering a unique perspective on Portugal’s history and the passage of time.
- Location: Montemor-o-Novo, Évora district.
10. Sortelha Castle, Sortelha
- Description: One of Portugal’s best-preserved medieval castles, Sortelha Castle offers an immersive journey into the past, with its rustic charm and timeless beauty.
- Location: Near Guarda.
11. Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle), Sintra
- Description: The Moorish Castle, with its rugged battlements perched high on the Sintra Mountains, is a testament to the Islamic period in Portuguese history. The castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and the sea.
- Location: Sintra, near Lisbon.
12. Tomar Castle, Tomar
- Description: A monumental testament to the Knights Templar, Tomar Castle is a blend of military and religious architecture. Its Convent of Christ is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its unique Manueline window.
- Location: Tomar, Santarém district.
Explore with Portugal Magik Tours
Embark on a private tour to these historical treasures with Portugal Magik Tours, an award-winning tour company over the last 12 years in Portugal. Experience the luxury of their vehicles and the expertise of knowledgeable driver-guides. Book your unforgettable journey through Portugal’s rich history and visit Portugal Magik Tours or contact directly by phone at (929) 534-7500 (From USA) for a tailored experience that brings the past to life.
Gonzalo
Founder/Owner of The Lisbon Guide, one of the major blog references in Portugal, established in 2014 and receiving every year 250.000 visitors from all over the world, looking to provide the best experiences in Portugal. In partnership with Portugal Magik for all private tours and transfers across Portugal, Gonzalo loves a good seafood meal at Monte Mar Cascais, and all from Michelin Chef Avillez. Favorite Hotel in Lisbon/Portugal, Penha Longa Resort by Ritz Carlton.
For over 15 years, Gonzalo have been helping thousands of travelers yearly to plan a perfect trip to Portugal. Based in Lisbon/Cascais and working in this field for over 20 years, with multiple ongoing projects. Also an avid TripAdvisor user level 6 with more than 300.000 readers worldwide.
Many years working also as a Private Guide of Lisbon, Sintra, Fatima, Porto, Douro Valley, Evora, and other locations in Portugal.
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