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Looking for the best castles in Portugal? If you’re a history buff or a fairy tale lover, you are going to love these amazing, historic sites. Portugal is a treasure trove of fortresses and fortified structures that date back to medieval times. From grand fortifications with moorish architecture in portugal that are perched atop the highest hilltops to charming small-scale castles hidden away in the countryside, Portugal has it all.
Portugal’s prime coastal location has led them to some interesting history. Quite a few different reigns have held power here in Portugal, resulting in a variety of architecture, and a lot of magnificent castles.
So just how many castles in Portugal? There are an astounding number of over 250 castles in Portugal. If you tried really hard you may be able to see all of them one one trip, but just in case you aren’t superhuman, this list of castles in Portugal will help guide your way!
Plan to visit a bunch of these castles while planning out your Lisbon to Porto road trip!
Everyone has their own opinion on what the most beautiful castle in Portugal is. Pena Palace in the Portugal castle city of Sintra is always on the top of the list. I personally fell in love with the Obidos Castle, and the Silvas always a close second for me. Take a close look through all of these lovely castles and palaces and take your pick!
This is one of the most beautiful castles in Portugal, it has prime beachfront access. It is located in Ferragudo between the two beaches of Praia Grande and Praia da Angrinha on the western side of Lagoa. The castle was built in the 17th century to protect the town of Portimão against pirate attacks and where sea voyages started.
Sadly you cannot enter this castle. It is privately owned, but you are can walk along the beachfront to see it. In the summertime, there are ferries to jump on that go from Ferragudo to Silves if you wanted to visit multiple castles in Portugal on the same day you easily could.
The town of Ferragudo is a great place to spend the day if you are visiting Castelo de São João do Arade. There are many cafes and restaurants to visit. There is also a really pretty lighthouse that is one of the best places in Lagoa to watch the sunset.
Address to the Castelo De Sao Joao do Arade
Next on the list of the best castles to see in Portugal is Castelo de Silves. This stunning medieval castle is over 1000 years old and was originally built by the Arabs who held power over Portugal. Standing guard out front is a bronze sculpture representing King Sancho I, you cannot miss it.
Castelo de Silves is one of the many castles in Algarve Portugal. It sits up on a steep. hill overlooking the entire city of Silves. If you are visiting during the Portugal in the winter months the Christmas lights that turn on at night are just magical.
To enter the castle is only a few euros for the whole day. Go inside and walk the walls. Next, take a look at the ancient artifacts that have been found. They have transformed a few rooms into showrooms. There is a cafe serving yummy drinks and traditional Portuguese snacks. You could easily spend a whole day in Silves exploring the town.
This next beauty is the Castle of Paderne. This is one of the many castle ruins in Portuga.l
You can see from the highway in the Algarve. From the road, it looks remains of the Castle of Paderne seem small. But once you take the dirt path road through orange trees on the way to the Castle you will be able to see this was once a beautiful piece of history.
Like many of the other castles in Portugal, on the grounds here once stood a castle from the Roman era dating back to the 2nd century. By 1248 the Portuguese reign took over the castle and transformed it into what stands today.
There is no entrance fee to see the castle and if you get lucky you might have this whole place to yourself for a wonderful photo shoot. Next, try standing under the magnificent archway and you will feel the magic that once was the Palace at Castle of Paderne.
Address to the Castle oF Paderne.
One of the best castles in Portugal is the Castle of Loule. This is because it is still very much intact and dates back to the 2nd century. It is free to enter Caste Loule and take a walk around the castle walls and view the town. This castle was restored in the 19th century and now is a white-washed color. Plus at the Castle of Loule, many of the original towers are still standing strong today.
From the top of the castle walls, you will see the dome-shaped bright pink-colored village market building, and inside the Castle of Loule, you will find a museum with Roman and medieval artifacts found around the town.
The town of Louie is a traditional market with 70,000 residents that love to party. They hold two huge festivals every year. The first one is in February and the second is in the warmer month of September. The whole town closes down for days on end and they party in the street dressed as princesses, kings, and even demons.
One of the best castles in Portugal is the Castle of Castro Marim. Dating back to the 8th century. It was built to please D.Afonso III because it overlooks the Spanish and Roman border. Today you can enjoy the view looking over the entire region of the Algarve and the Atlantic Ocean.
This castle has gone through its share of changes. Castro Marim is mostly ruined today but is still worth the visit. This was one of the most important castles in Portugal because it was the first headquarters of the orders of Christ back in 1319. After that, it was transformed to become the first church for the village. In 1504 it was once again changed to hold military barracks, for the famous Knights of Templar.
Today you can visit the Castle of Castro Marim anytime you wish, they over amazing views of the village of Forte de Sao Sebastiao. Come see one of the best castles in Portugal and relive all the amazing history that took place here.
The Castle of Santa Maria da Feira is a prominent Portuguese castle located in the municipality of Santa Maria da Feira, in the district of Aveiro. It stands as an emblematic representation of Portuguese architecture.
Historically, the castle’s site was initially a temple dedicated to the local divinity Bandeve-Lugo Toiraeco. The castle itself was built between the 11th and 16th centuries, making it one of the most oldest castles in Portugal.
One of the unique aspects of the Castle of Santa Maria da Feira is the design and layout. The castle is perched on a high hilltop, giving it a grand view of the city center.
Address to the Castle of Santa Maria de Feiras
If you are looking for the best castles in the Algarve, then the Castle of Alcoutim should be on your list. This is another one of the castles in Portugal that was built in the 12th to 13th centuries. Inside you will find an archaeological museum. There is not much left of the castle today, but the views from the hill are so dreamy that it is certainly worth visiting.
This is one of the most important castles of Portugal because it is located on the west bank of the Guadiana river. The Guadiana river separates Spain from Portugal, so the Castle of Alcoutim had the important job of hosting the signing of the Peace Treaty between the two countries.
For one of the best castles to stay in Portugal, try the Obidos Portugal Castle! Obidos was built in 1148 and then remodeled in 1375 and has always been a place for royalty. There is so much to do in this Portugal castle that you will hardly know where to start.
There are many Airbnb’s, hotels, and hostels located inside the walls of Obidos. You can easily find accommodation for under $100 a night no matter the season, and many allow pets.
Start your day by walking the walls of the castle, they stretch all the way around the city and offer panoramic views of the castle and countryside. Please do this you will have a richer soul after the experience. After that, you can always walk down the cobblestoned paths to take in the lovely medieval views of the old town.
There are jewelry shops, beautiful outdoor cafes, and many delicious options for food. Make sure to try one of the cherry liquor shots in a chocolate cup, they come in two flavors white and milk chocolate. Almost every store sells them and you can buy some for souvenirs too. Or book a walking tour to learn all the history and secrets of Obidos.
You cannot drive your car inside the city of Obidos, because it is reserved for locals only. But don’t worry the parking lot is free and right across the street. It is an easy walk but try packing light just in case.
You cannot have a list of the best castles in Portugal and not talk about the gorgeous, and colorful Pena Palace. There is plenty of love about this historic and iconic royal palace built in the middle ages. You could take a guided tour from Lisbon, or drive yourself!
Book a ticket online before you arrive this will ensure you get in during the time you want. Once you are there you will be able to explore the grounds and go inside the castle.
If you can try and make this the first stop of the day, the castle doors open at 9 am and there is usually a line of people already waiting to enter. It is very high up in the sky and can be windy and foggy. You can grab a snack at the restaurant inside and take a load off after walking around the national park.
Most people end up spending about 3-4 hours here because there is so much to see. If you could only go to one palace this is for sure the best castle in Portugal to visit.
Monserrate Palace, is also known as “Palácio de Monserrate” in Portuguese. It is a stunning villa located near Sintra, Portugal. This 19th century palace is a perfect blend of architectural styles including Gothic, Indian, and Moorish styles, surrounded by beautifully designed English gardens set in the lush hills of near the castles in Sintra Portugal.
The palace was originally owned by William Beckford way back in 1793. He was the one who started the pretty landscaped garden. Later, it was bought by Sir Francis Cook, an English millionaire, in 1856. He hired architect James Knowles Jr. to design to the romantic palace it is today.
This is one of the most intricate designs of all the palaces of portugal. Its architecture leaning towards Moorish influences. Inside, you can admire the Music Room’s, the library’s beautiful wooden bookcases, and the Turkish Drawing Room’s with extra fancy decoration.
Surrounding the palace is a lush park featuring a remarkable botanical gardens with plants from all over the world, waterfalls, and lakes.
The Sintra National Palace, also known as the Town Palace (Palácio da Vila), is located in the town of Sintra near Northern portugal Portuguese capital. It is one of the oldest palaces in Portugal with over 1000 years of history.
It is best known for being the best-preserved medieval royal palace in Portugal, it was a favorite with the Portuguese royal family. The palace is also Sintra’s most distinctive building. As the twin chimneys and conical towers are some of the first things you will see when touring the Sintra National Palace.
The Sintra National Palace was inhabited for almost eight entire centuries by the Portuguese monarchy and its court. Its minimalistic Gothic exterior hides a wonder of decorative state rooms, making it a highly recommended attraction while visiting Sintra.
Visitors can explore the palace’s rich history with a skip-the-line entry ticket. The palace is located around 4 km away from the the national Palace of Pena, the iconic castle in Portugal Sintra.
Quinta da Regaleira is a one of the most spectacular palaces of Portugal located near the historic centre of Sintra, Portugal. It’s classified as a World Heritage Site and is an always a popular tourist attraction.
At Tte Quinta da Regaleira you will find a grand palace, chapel, lakes, grottoes, wells, fountains, and extensive green spaces.And it is very close to the National Palace of Pena!
One of Quinta da Regaleira’s most fascinating features is the Initiation Well, an underground tower that sinks into the earth and is lined with a fabulous winding staircase. This well was never used for water collection but instead for important ceremonial purposes.
Grab a ticket before visiting the Quinta da Regaleira. Spend your day exploring this eccentrically decorated palace to wandering through the enchanting gardens, there’s plenty to see and do on this remarkable estate in Sintra.
One of the best medieval castles in Portugal is in the Algarve. Built at the same time as Castelo de Silves and dates back to the 10th century. This Portugal castle held strong and was one of the last ones to be taken by the Christians in the war.
Perched on a hill almost 90 meters high you will be able to see the beautiful views of the Aljezur plain and Monchique highlands on one side and the salt flats and the Atlantic ocean on the other.
Though mostly ruins today, it is still worth the visit on your castle tour of the Algarve. The address for the Castle of Aljezur is 8670-156 Aljezur, Portugal. Try going early in the morning for the beautiful sunrise views, and you might get lucky and have this place all to yourself. On your way hit some of the best hikes in the Algarve.
One of the best castles to visit in Portugal is the Castle of Lagos in Old Town. The walls of the castle protect the entire town and served as its main defense since 1578 when the Romans built the first walls. Visiting here is one of the best things to do in Lagos.
The Castle of Lagos is known as The Governor’s Castle and was very badly damaged in the earthquake of 1755. It is still a beautiful site to see. There are two main watch towers attached to the high wall in front of the castle. With a famous Manueline-style window added in. This window was the favorite place of King Sebastian to sit and watch over his town.
The beautiful coastal town of Lagos is one of the most popular things to do in the Algarve. There are many beaches, restaurants in Lagos with a view , and a fun Lagos Algarve nightlife scene. You could easily spend a few days in Lagos and find plenty of things to do.
You will also want to check out some of the best beaches in Lagos, while you are in town!
The Paço Episcopal do Porto, or Episcopal Palace is one of the best castles in Porto Portugal. This historical building is located in the heart of Porto. It was built back in the 18th century and served as the residence of the bishops of Porto until the early 20th century. If you are looking for where to stay in Porto, this one of the best areas.
Today, the palace is open to the public and visitors can enjoy a glimpse into the privileged life of the bishops of Porto in the past. The palace boasts impressive Baroque architecture with stunning gardens.
Additionally, there is one of the best Porto Museums on-site that showcases a collection of beautiful religious art, including paintings, impressive sculptures, and vestments.
There is a small fee for Admission to the Paço Episcopal do Porto. Be sure to ask for a discount if you are traveling with children, students, or seniors. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and it is closed on certain holidays. Find all the best things to do on our 7 days in Portugal itinerary.
Paco Episcopal do Porto address.
Up next is the Castle of Moors which is the oldest castle in Portugal, although it is hard to confirm. Built back in the 8th century is definitely one of the best contenders for being the oldest. It has a very interesting history and was once taken by Christian forces back in the 1100s.
When planning on visiting The Castle Of the Moors be prepared for a slight hike through the thick forest, as it can be muddy and a bit of a workout. But, you will be rewarded with wonderful views of Sinta village. The only thing left the high walls and a few towers, but it definitely with a visit.
You can easily visit the Castle of Moors and the Pena Palace on the same day. Another amazing thing to do when visiting the castle of Moors is to check out the beaches in Sintra. They will be less crowded than most of the beaches in the Algarve, but equally as beautiful!
The Castelo de Tomar, also known as “Castelo dos Templários” or the Castle of the Templars, is located in the city of Tomar in Portugal. It was built by the grandmaster of the Order of Knights Templar, a medieval organization that existed for about two centuries. After the pope dismantled the Knights templar, the Tomas Castle of the moors became one of the royal palaces for King Manuel.
The castle and the Convent of the Knights of Christ within its grounds became a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983. This Tomar Castle Portugal has been considered one of the most important Portuguese military and historic castle on the Iberian peninsula. It’s a key tourist attraction and a significant historical jewel. Visitors to the city of Tomar should not miss this site.
Belém Tower is officially known as the Tower of Saint Vincent, but everyone just calls it the Belem Tower. This beautiful 16th-century fortification located in downtown Lisbon, Portugal. It was Built during 1514 and 1520.
The Belem Tower served as a starting point and disembarkation for Portuguese explorers! And it was a significant defensive system at the mouth of the Tagus river. It is a monument to Portugal’s Age of Discovery, both on land and sea.
One of the most iconic features of the tower is its decoration, which is notably influenced by the Manueline style, a Portuguese architectural style from the 16th century that incorporates maritime elements and representations of the discoveries brought back during exploration.
The Belém Tower has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Lisbon’s most visited tourist attractions. It is very easy to reach using public transport, and is apart of the Lisbon Card!
The Lisbon São Jorge Castle or the Castle of Saint George, is one of the castles near Lisbon situated on the hill of São Jorge, with stunning views. It is close to some of the best restaurants in Lisbon with a view of the water.
The castle is dedicated to Saint George, the patron saint of England, from the first King Afonso Henriques’. This historical monument is one of the most popular images of Lisbon.
The Lisbon Sao Jorge Castle is a significant military monument and an iconic cultural site. It was declared a World Heritage Site and stands as a monument to the horrors of the slave trade. It’s one of the oldest remains of the Portuguese presence in Africa and the participation in slavery.
To reach the Sao Jorge, head to one of the two free elevators that connect Baixa, or downtown Lisbon to the castle coast. From there, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the castle entrance. You will love visiting Sao Jorge castle in Lisbon Portugal! Book a ticket to the Saint George Castle and beat the lines!
Guimarães Castle, known in Portuguese as “Castelo de Guimarães,” is one of the principal famous castles in Portugal in Guimarães, in the northern region of Portugal. Visiting here is one of the best day trips from Lisbon.
Guimaraes is famed for its association with the foundation of the Portucalense County and the beginnings of Portuguese royal family history.
The castle was built in the 10th century by Mumadona Dias, a noblewoman who ruled the region after her husband’s death. It was constructed on a rocky promontory to protect the monks and nuns that lived there. The Porto castle’s presence evokes a sense of legend, poetry, and heroism.
Guimarães castle was once a royal residence in the 10th century for Henry of Burgundy. And his poppa the first king of Portugal was said to be born in Guimaraes. For this reason, it is often referred to as the “Cradle of Portugal.” It has been recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal and is considered one of the finest castles near Porto Portugal.
The Almourol Castle, known in Portuguese as “Castelo de Almourol,” is a Sandstone castle located in the middle of the Tagus River on a small rocky island. It comes from the arabic word Almorolan that means “high rock”.
This is one of the most distinctive in Portugal due to its historical significance and the unique island location. Built back in the 12th century, Almourol is considered one of the best castles in Portugal to visit.
One of the main artistic and architectural features happened under the ruling of the Knights Templar. The main door shows the date 1171. This is when it became a knights templar castle in Portugal.
The National Palace of Mafra, also known as the Palace-Convent of Mafra and the Royal Building of Mafra, is a significant national monument of central Portugal it was built during the reign of King John V back in 1717 for his wife, Queen Mariana, to celebrate her first baby.
It was not occupied permanently by the royalty, because they thought considered the rooms too gloomy! Nonetheless, it was still a popular palace for the members of the royal family who enjoyed hunting in the nearby game Portuguese land, the Tapada Nacional de Mafra.
It originally severed only a summer residence with high end art collections featuring works by mainly Portuguese, with some Italian, and French artists thrown in. There is also one of the the world’s most stunning libraries and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Monument back in 1910!
The Ajuda National Palace, located in Lisbon, Portugal, is a neoclassical monument known for its beautiful interiors and huge art collections. It served as the official royal house in the second half of the 19th century.
Built on the site of a temporary wooden building constructed to house King José I after the 1755 earthquake, the palace boasts beautifully decorated rooms including the Throne Room, the Ballroom, and the Supper Room.
The palace’s interior is richly decorated with fancy furniture, incredible tapestries, sculptures, and extravagant decorative arts. These were all from the unprecedented wealth in the 1700s.
The Ajuda National Palace is often the site of official ceremonies for the Presidency of the Republic. It is considered a must-see when doing a tour of the castles in Portugal near Lisbon.
The Castle of Evoramonte, also known as Évora Monte or Évoramonte. It’s known for its distinctive Italian Renaissance style architecture and is one of the best hidden gems.
This castle was built during the Portuguese reconquest and is considered an architectural masterpiece, offering picturesque views of both Evora and Estremoz in the Alentejo region of Portugal.
The castle was initiated in 1160, in the Gothic period, and it was finished centuries later in the Manueline style after the end of the Portuguese civil war.
Some one of the unique features of this beautiful castle in Central Portugal are the four cylindrical towers and stunning spiral staircase that leads to the top, which unfortunately doesn’t come with a handrail.
The Tower/Palace of Evoramonte was built by the Dukes of Bragança D. Teodósio and D. Jaime as a symbol of power, reflected in the tie of Manueline. Then after that the King Afonso Henriques and his wife used this castle as their dreamy summer residence!
The Mateus Palace, also known as Casa de Mateus, is a significant monument located in Vila Real, Portugal, about an hour from Porto. This palace is considered one of the best Baroque civil architecture in Portugal.
The Mateus Palace is set in beautiful gardens on a huge farm. There are three different areas to see: the manor, the chapel, and the gardens.
This Portugal palace is run by the Foundation of the Casa de Mateus, and they have many activities related to art or music throughout the year! Add the beautiful Mateus Palace to your list when planning out your Porto wine tours.
Mateus Palace, Vila Real address.
The Palacio da Fronteira, also known as the Palace of the Marquises of Fronteira, is a one of the Portuguese palaces located in Lisbon. Although it was built in the 17th-century the palace is beautifully preserved and is still lived in by private residents.
It’s best known for its beautiful gardens and collection of azulejos tilework, some of the most famous in Portugal. This Lisbon palace holds the largest collection of 17th-century “azulejos” (Portuguese tiles) and is considered one of the most beautiful seventeenth-century palaces in Lisbon.
The palace and its gardens can be visited with an admission fee. But, since the palace is privately owned, access inside is only possible through guided tours.
Palacio da Fronteira, Lisbon address
The Stock Exchange Palace, known as Palácio da Bolsa in Portuguese, is a historical building located in the city of Porto, Portugal. The palace was built in the 19th century by the city’s Commercial Association and has since become an UNESCO world heritage site.
Renowned for its exquisite neoclassical facade and ornate gilded Arabian Hall, the palace is a testament to Portugals rich architectural and heritage. The palace was built to be the stock exchange of Porto and is currently the headquarters of Porto’s Commercial Association.
The interior of the palace is equally impressive. Book one of the guided tours offering for the chance to explore the decorated rooms. The tours, which typically last around 30 minutes, provide interesting information about the palace and the rich history of Porto.
The palace is located in the very center of the Porto. It’s also located next to the Igreja de São Francisco (Church of Saint Francis), making it a convenient stop for those exploring the city’s historic sites, of enjoy a bit of Porto Nightlife.
The Castle of Leiria, is one of the many medieval Portugal castles.
Situated on a hill overlooking the town of Leiria in the Estremadura region of central Portugal. It has both extraordinary views and strategic location. On the Leiria castle complex there is also a church and a palace to explore. It highlights the areas role as not just a military fortification, but also a center of religious and important government activities.
You can enter Leiria Castle through the Albacara Gateway. And the palace within the castle is noted for its elegance and architectural beauty. It has undergone numerous aesthetic and changes over time. This is one of the prettiest Portuguese castles to explore!
There are plenty of castles hotels in Portugal. If you are thinking about a fairy tail getaway a castle is just the place to stay. Think of yourself luckly as back in the day these special hotels and palaces where only reserved for royalty!
Staying in a castle in Portugal is a unique and enchanting experience that offers a true taste of the country’s rich history and culture. These historic structures, which have been transformed into luxurious hotels, are scattered across Portugal’s beautiful countryside, offering a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort.
One of the best castles to stay in Portugal is Obidos, and staying at the Encosta d´Óbidos is always a good idea. This is a super cute remodeled villa that has three private apartments to book. There is a one, two, and three-bedroom options making it the perfect place for parties of all sizes.
Check rates here: Booking.com
Credit: Encosta d Obidos Via: Booking.com
Pousada Castelo Alvito is one of the best castle hotels in Portugal. Build back in the 15th century the Pousada Castelo de Alvito was once a place for royalty but today you can book a room and stay yourself. There is a restaurant on-site as well as bookings for horseback riding, bicycle rides, country hikes, and shooting available. You could also book the whole place if you are looking for one of the best castles in Portugal for weddings.
Check rates here for this luxury hotel: Booking.com
Credit: de Alvito Via: Booking.com
If the castle hotels didn’t fit your vibe, these amazing Portuguese palaces are also wonderful places to rest your head at night with all the luxurious touches.
The Vidago Palace Hotel is surrounded beautiful greenery with so many modern luxuries. Relax by the pool, book a spa treatment or tee up at the 18-hole golf course. The Palace Vidago is decorated light and bright touches. There are also four restaurants on site, so you never have to leave if you decide to stay at the Vidago Palace Hotel.
Check rates here: Booking.com
The Palacio de Estoi, also known as Pousada Palácio Estoi, is a historical monument in the town of Estoi, just 6.2 mi from Faro, Algarve, Portugal. This palace was former stately home that was built in the 19th century and has since been renovated into one of the best hotels in Faro.
The palace is known for its beautiful gardens and light pink walls with domes and statues, and it is considered one of the best things to do in Faro. The construction of the home began back in the 1840s.
Since then The Pousada Palácio Estoi has become part of the select club of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
The palace is conveniently located near the city center of Faro and the beach, making it an excellent base for exploring the Algarve castles and the best beaches in the Algarve.
The Palacio do Freixo, also known as Pestana Palacio do Freixo, is a luxurious 5-star hotel located near the Douro River in Porto, Portugal. This hotel is set in an old 18th-century building that has been beautifully restored with several rooms to book.
This Portugal palace, combined with a neighboring flour mill, offers one of Porto’s most luxurious accommodation options. The hotel is known for its aristocratic public areas and provides guests with an unforgettable stay.
Aside from its stunning architecture and luxurious accommodations, the hotel offers a restaurant with a variety of specialties on their menu.
You ill be within waking distance the city of Porto, the Pousada offers an irresistible combination of contemporary accommodation and an authentic cultural experience.
Check rates here: Booking.com
There are over 150 castles in Portugal! Most are ruins, but some are perfectly in tact but each its unique history and charm. The castles in Portugal are scattered across the country, so many where you are looking to travel in portugal you will be able to visit a few castles.
Yes! Portugal does have Castles! Over hundred and there are plenty to view! Some of the most beautiful and renowned ones include Pena Palace, Sao Jorge Castle, and the Quinta da Regaleira Palace. Each castle has a unique story to tell and offers a glimpse into Portugal’s rich past. This is perfect way to spend your time if you love architecture, history, or a sucker for stunning views, Portugal’s castles have something to offer for everyone.
The most colorful castle in Portugal is the Pena Palace in Sintra. This Palace is an opulent structure and is known world wide known for its brightly colored towers and the captivating mix of architectural styles. Pena Palace was completed in 1854, is perched high on a hill above the town of Sintra and is so big that it can be easily spotted from Lisbon on a clear day. It brings thousands of visitors each year who come to admire its architectural features and surrounding forest park.
There are so many castles in Portugal because they were build as fortresses and defensive structures during the continuous wars of the Reconquista on the Iberian Peninsula. They played a significant role and protected the towns and cities.
There are so many left today in excellent condition today because of the constructional designed to withstand almost anything, including severe earthquakes.
As time passed and the need for such defenses decreased, many of these castles fell into disrepair. However, over 150 forts and castles endure as monuments to Portugal’s will to be independent31.
Today, these castles not only represent the ancient history, culture, religion, and lifestyle of the Portuguese people but also serve as major tourist attractions, with towns like Sintra renowned for their high concentration of historic palaces and castles14.
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