Castelo de São Jorge, Breathtaking views and sunsets from historic heights
Rd Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisbon
4.2
Introduction
One of the oldest and most important sights in Lisbon is the castle located in the Alfama district, built on the highest point of the area and preserving the neighborhood known as Santa Cruz. The castle's history dates back to the 6th century BC, when it was built by Celts in the 5th century, fortified and transformed into a palace by Moors and Christians. It covers an area of 6,000 square meters and is a very important strategic high point that was occupied by rulers of different eras and even used as a barracks and prison. Throughout history, the king received heroes here, but it was not until the early 16th century when King Manuel I built another palace on the banks of the Tagus River that the castle exited the historical stage. The castle was destroyed by earthquakes several times, but after its renovations in 1940, it became even more spectacular. The castle has 11 towers and a dry moat, and it preserves many ruins, such as the House of Odysseus and Agiular, as well as the multimedia projection hall Olisipónia, which is located inside the tower. Additionally, the castle was once the site of an orphanage, and it is particularly disturbing that the orphanage was exposed as the site of the largest ever abuse scandal in its early century. However, the castle's viewing platform is an excellent place to overlook the Lisbon city center and the Tagus River, making it an excellent choice for watching the sunset, and it is definitely worth a visit. Address Rd Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisbon
Opening hours November 1st to February 28th from 9:00-18:00 and March 1st to October 31st from 9:00-21:00. Closed on December 24th, 25th, 31st, January 1st, and May 1st.
Transportation Take bus No. 737 to Castelo stop, then walk about 5 minutes; or take bus No. 12 or No. 28 to Castelo de S.Jorge stop, then walk about 10 minutes; or you can also walk uphill for about 20 minutes from the commercial square to arrive.
The view from the castle overlooking the entire scenery is particularly beautiful
