Castle of the Moors

The Castle of the Moors, locally known as Castelo dos Mouros, is a captivating medieval fortress perched high on the hills of Sintra, Portugal. This historic site, with its dramatic stone walls and breathtaking views, tells a tale of conquest, resilience, and architectural splendor. Located just 25 kilometers northwest of Lisbon, the Castle of the Moors is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

The History of the Castle of the Moors

The origins of the Castle of the Moors date back to the 8th and 9th centuries when it was constructed by the Moors during the period of Muslim Iberia. The castle was strategically built to protect the agricultural population of the region. In 1031, the king of Badajoz transferred the territory, including Sintra, to Alfonso VI of León and Castile in an attempt to secure an alliance. However, this did not prevent the castle from falling into the hands of the Almoravid dynasty.

In 1147, after the conquest of Lisbon by Afonso Henriques, the castle surrendered to Christian forces. King Afonso Henriques entrusted the castle's security to 30 inhabitants, granting them privileges in a charter signed in 1154. This move encouraged settlers to inhabit the castle and ensure the region's security and development.

During the second half of the 12th century, a chapel was constructed within the castle walls, which later became the parish seat. King Sancho I of Portugal initiated the remodeling and construction efforts. In 1375, King Ferdinand I of Portugal, under the counsel of João Annes de Almada, ordered the rebuilding of the castle. Despite these efforts, the castle's military importance gradually diminished as inhabitants moved to the old village of Sintra.

By the 15th century, the chapel was still in use, but it was later abandoned and only used by the small Jewish community of the parish. The Jews were expelled by Manuel I of Portugal, and the castle was completely abandoned by the 16th century. The 1755 Lisbon earthquake caused significant damage to the chapel and the castle's stability.

In 1838, King Ferdinand II of Portugal took on the task of conserving and improving the castle. He consolidated the walls, reforested the area, and conserved the chapel. The reforms, overseen by Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege, aimed to preserve the castle's historical significance while making it more accessible to visitors.

Exploring the Castle of the Moors

Visitors to the Castle of the Moors are greeted by the impressive sight of its stone walls meandering over the granite terrain of the Sintra Mountains. The castle offers panoramic views of the municipality of Sintra and, on clear days, even Mafra and Ericeira. The castle's location within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park adds to its charm, with dense and diverse vegetation surrounding the area.

The castle's architecture is characterized by its irregular plan, following a 450-meter perimeter on top of a mountainous cliff. The double line of military walls, with circular and square turrets, thick battlements, and pyramid-shaped merlons, reflects its strategic importance during its time. The main entrance to the castle is protected by two turrets and battlements, leading visitors into the heart of the fortress.

Within the castle walls, visitors can explore the ruins of old buildings, including cellars, animal pens, and a cistern. The subterranean cistern, accessible via a three-meter accessway, is 18 meters long, 6 meters wide, and 6 meters high, showcasing the castle's ingenious water collection system.

The highest tower, known as the royal tower, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The castle's romantic character is accentuated by its natural and exotic vegetation, making it a perfect spot for photography and contemplation.

The Chapel of São Pedro

Outside the secondary wall of the castle lies the Chapel of São Pedro, a rectangular nave with a narrow, lower presbytery. Constructed of limestone and masonry, the chapel's southern wall features an arched doorway supported by colonnades and decorative capitals with motifs of vegetation and fantastical animals. The northern façade, with a 1.5-meter opening, corresponds to a primitive door elevated due to the terrain.

The main chapel has a cradle vault with remnants of frescoes, offering a glimpse into the religious life of the castle's inhabitants. The chapel's ruins are a testament to the castle's historical and architectural significance.

Visiting the Castle of the Moors

Exploring the Castle of the Moors is a journey through time, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the rich history and stunning architecture of this medieval fortress. The castle's panoramic views, lush surroundings, and well-preserved ruins make it a captivating destination for all who visit.

Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique experience, the Castle of the Moors is a must-see attraction in Sintra. Its walls echo stories of conquest, resilience, and architectural brilliance, making it an unforgettable part of any trip to Portugal.