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The majesty of Castelo de São Jorge in Lisbon
Castelo de São Jorge... does that ring a bell with you?
At the top of one of the 7 hills of Lisbon is the impressive Castelo de São Jorge. Of all, this hill is considered as the highest and the one that has the most comprehensive sight, with a glimpse for the neighbourhoods of Mouraria and Alfama. It is told that it was precisely on the hill of São Jorge that the city was originally formed, with the first houses and the first occupants - a fact that attributes even more greatness to this National Monument.
Castelo de São Jorge is a must-stop for any visitor of the capital. Located in the parish of Santa Maria Maior, it was built where once it was the noble zone of the old citadel of Lisbon in the Middle Ages. For those who have never heard of this charismatic monument, Castelo de São Jorge is a fortification built by the Moors in the mid-11th century, intended to be the last defensive stronghold for the elite who lived on the citadel at that time: the Moorish governor and the elite city administrators.
The castle was taken in 1147 by D. Afonso Henriques when he conquered the city of Lisbon to the Moors - personality of the History that would become the first king of Portugal. Until the early 16th century, under court dominance, the castle had its most glorious period. It was expanded and adapted to have new accommodations for the king, his court and the bishop, as well as the royal archives. Also, this royal palace was chosen to receive notable guests, both Portuguese and foreign, and was the perfect place for all the important festivities and coronations.
In 1580, when Portugal became part of the Spanish Crown, the castle acquires a military purpose and thus remains until the 20th century. During this period, and especially after the earthquake of 1755, which caused massive destruction in certain areas of the city, another substantial renovation work took place.
Lastly, in the 20th century, Castelo de São Jorge goes through a significant restoration works that rediscover several vestiges and ruins of the original monument in the Middle Ages. Once the old buildings were rescued, the castle opened the doors to visitors and its magnificence returned to be the mark of the highest hill of the city of Lisbon.
Castelo de São Jorge: what can you expect?
If you think you will only see a castle in ruins, you will be surprised! In order to its history be told and represented in a captivating and fun way, Castelo de São Jorge offers to all visitors, both adults, and children, many attractions:
- For a more pedagogical purpose, the Permanent Exhibition presents the history of Lisbon; on the other hand, the Archaeological Site is the ideal place to explore the ruins and the vestiges that represent the life in the Middle Ages, during its construction;
- The guided tours and all educational activities that are available at Castelo de São Jorge are perfect for groups, whether adults or children;
- In the Black Chamber, visitors have the opportunity to experience something incredible: they can observe 360º detailed views of Lisbon in real time, including the Tagus river, its monuments, its streets and most emblematic areas, and its own everyday life;
- For moments of leisure and relaxation, you can enjoy the magnificent landscape of the always crowded viewpoint, which delights thousands of tourists; you can also visit the beautiful gardens, eat and/or drink at the castle’s coffee shop; or you can just get involved in the dances, the songs and the performances that tell the magical stories of this very special place!
With an incalculable historical value, to get to know the majestic Castelo de São Jorge becomes one of the reasons for millions of people to decide to visit Lisbon. Its magnificence is recognized by all, even by the most distracted: during the day, or at night, when the monument lights up, the castle reaffirms its presence and reminds everyone that Lisbon carries a wonderful history... a story you will definitely want to tell your family when you return home!
