| Castles south of Lisbon |
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Many fortifications remain to mark Portugal’s foundation and military history. Palmela, Sesimbra and Setúbal castles have since become prominent features of the Costa Azul. Many fortifications remain to mark Portugal’s foundation and military history. Palmela, Sesimbra and Setúbal castles have since become prominent features of the Costa Azul. Palmela Castle stands on the last outcrop of the Serra da Arrábida, from where you can look out over the vast plain from Sines to Sintra. Today it is the home of an extremely beautiful Pousada. All that now remains of the castle’s original Roman foundation is the circular towers; the square towers have been attributed to the Arabs, whereas the keep is attributed to the Master of Avis. The modern fortifications, which were used as defence for cannon fire, are the work of Dom Pedro II. Situated close to Setúbal, the Fortaleza de São Filipe enjoys a privileged position at the mouth of the River Sado. Overlooking the scenic beaches of the Tróia Peninsula, the mountains of Serra da Arrábida act as its backdrop. It is the work of the Italian architect Filipe Terzio and was built at the orders of King Filipe II to protect the entrance to the Sado estuary. Nowadays, it is also a Pousada. Sesimbra Castle, built in 1200, dominates the whole of the bay. With an irregular-shaped ground plan, and adapted to the contours of the hill on which it was built, it consists of a citadel with a keep, cistern and extensive high walls, reinforced with a watchtower and sloping bulwarks. Make sure you find some time to visit these fortifications, each of them just a stone’s throw from Lisbon. They offer fascinating architecture, plus stunning views of their respective regions. |
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