The Moorish Castle is a medieval fortress perched on a rocky hill in Sintra, offering spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding area. Unlike Pena Palace, which is a romantic 19th-century palace, the Moorish Castle is a true medieval fortress with thick walls, defensive towers, and an authentically historic atmosphere.
The castle was built by the Moors in the 11th century and conquered by Christians in the 12th century. For over 800 years, the castle served as a defensive fortress, protecting the region from invasions. Although the castle is now in ruins, its massive walls and imposing towers bear witness to its former power.
Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1995 alongside Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle is a fascinating destination for lovers of history and medieval architecture. The castle offers a unique perspective on the medieval period and the strategic importance of Sintra.
This comprehensive guide tells you everything you need to know about the Château des Maures: its fascinating history, remarkable architecture, and all the practical details for planning your visit. Get ready to explore a true medieval fortress!
The history of the Moorish Castle dates back to the 11th century, when the Moors built a fortress on a rocky hill in Sintra. The site was chosen for its strategic position: perched on a hill, the castle offered a panoramic view of the region and allowed control of trade routes.
The fortress was built with thick walls and defensive towers to withstand attacks. The Moors recognized the strategic importance of the site and invested in its defense. The castle became a key point in the region’s defense against Christian attacks from the north.
For over 400 years, the Moorish Castle remained under Muslim control. The castle was continually improved and reinforced, with the addition of new towers and defenses. It became one of the most powerful fortresses in the region.
Inside the castle, a small town developed, with houses, markets, and places of worship. The castle was not only a military fortress, but also an administrative and commercial center.
In 1147, King Afonso Henriques, founder of Portugal, launched the final assault to reconquer Lisbon from the Moors. After the fall of Lisbon, the Moorish Castle was also conquered by the Christians. The castle changed hands, but its structure remained largely unchanged.
After the Reconquista, the castle continued to serve as a defensive fortress for the Christians. However, with the advancement of military technology, the castle gradually lost its strategic importance. By the 17th century, the castle was largely abandoned.
Over the following centuries, the castle fell into ruin. The walls crumbled, the towers disintegrated, and vegetation reclaimed the site. The castle became a forgotten place, known only to local inhabitants.
In the 19th century, with the growing interest in historical heritage, the castle began to be restored. Archaeologists and historians studied the castle and worked to preserve its ruins. In the 20th century, major restorations ensured that the castle remained accessible and safe for visitors.
Today, the Moorish Castle is one of Sintra’s most visited tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. The castle offers a unique perspective on the medieval period and Sintra’s strategic importance.
The walls of the Moorish Castle are among the most impressive in the region. Built with local stone, the walls are several meters thick and rise to a height of over 10 meters. These walls were not simply barriers; they were sophisticated defensive systems, designed to withstand enemy attacks.
The walls were equipped with crenellations and loopholes that allowed the defenders to fire on attackers while remaining protected. The castle gates were reinforced with portcullises and drawbridges that could be raised in case of attack.
The castle is dominated by its imposing towers, each with its own history and purpose. The towers offer different views of the surrounding area and allowed defenders to watch for potential threats. The towers are not simply defensive structures; they are architectural works of art.
Within the walls, the castle contained several inner courtyards. These courtyards were used for storing provisions, training soldiers, and other daily activities. Archaeologists have discovered remains of residential buildings, kitchens, and other structures inside the castle.
The castle contains several underground passages that have been used for various purposes: storing provisions, providing shelter in case of attack, or for religious rituals. These underground passages add a mystical atmosphere to the castle and offer a unique perspective on medieval life.
Perhaps the greatest treasure of the Moorish Castle is not its walls or towers, but the panoramic views it offers. From the castle terraces, you can see practically the entire Sintra region: Pena Palace, the villages of Sintra, the surrounding forests, and, on a clear day, even the Atlantic Ocean.
These views are not only beautiful; they are historically significant. They allow you to understand why the castle was built in this location: it is the highest point in the region, offering a panoramic view of the area and its approaches. The castle’s defenders could see enemies approaching from afar and prepare their defenses.
The Château des Maures is open to the public every day:
Entrance fees:
|
Category |
Price |
|
Adults |
€8 |
|
Children (6-12 years old) |
€4 |
|
Seniors (65+) |
€4 |
|
Students |
€4 |
|
Children (under 6 years old) |
Free |
Address: Castelo dos Mouros, 2710-405 Sintra, Portugal
Transportation:
✅ Arrive early (before 10am) to avoid the crowds
✅ Wear hiking boots
✅ Bring plenty of water
✅ Visit in the late afternoon for the best photos
✅ Pick up an audio guide (€5) for more details
✅ Explore the underground (bring a flashlight)
✅ Be careful on steep stairs
The Moorish Castle is surrounded by legends and myths. One of the most famous concerns a Moorish princess who threw herself from the top of the castle rather than surrender to the Christians. Although this story is probably apocryphal, it reflects the dramatic and tragic nature of the Reconquista wars.
According to local legends, the castle contains hidden treasures buried by the Moors before their departure. Although these treasures have never been found, the stories add a mystical atmosphere to the castle.
Like many old castles, the Château des Maures is surrounded by ghost legends. Locals tell stories of ghosts that haunt the castle, especially at night.
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