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The São Jorge Castle is one of the most emblematic monuments in Lisbon, located on the hill of S. Jorge, in the center of the city. With a rich and fascinating history, the castle is a major tourist spot and cultural attraction for visitors from all over the world.
Cultural and tourist importance of São Jorge Castle in Lisbon
Integrated into the cultural offering of the Portuguese capital, it is part of the mandatory itinerary for anyone who wants to learn about the history and origins of the city.
The oldest fortification on the site dates from the 2nd century BC, although traces have been found here from the 6th century BC. Archeology has made it possible to discover traces of Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans and Muslims, proving constant human occupation since ancient times.
The castle itself was founded in the 10th and 11th centuries, when Lisbon was an important Muslim port city. In 1147, the first king of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques, conquered the castle and city from the Moors.
Its most important period was between the 13th and 16th centuries. The castle was the setting for King Manuel I’s reception of Vasco da Gama after his discovery of the sea route to India. With the 1755 earthquake and the relocation of the royal residence to the riverside area of the city, the castle fell into serious decline and disrepair. It was declared a National Monument in 1910 and restoration work began that year. In 1990, it was renovated again and is now one of the most visited places in the city.
Relationship with other tourist attractions
A visit to the castle can easily be combined with other historical sites in the surrounding area:
- Santa Luzia Viewpoint: Just a few minutes’ walk away, it offers one of the most photographed views of Lisbon.
- Lisbon Cathedral: The oldest cathedral in the city, dating back to the 12th century.
- Alfama: Historic neighborhood with narrow streets, where you can listen to Fado and enjoy authentic Lisbon life.
Today’s Castle
Inside, the museum centre stands out, where you can see the history of Lisbon and the Tower of Ulysses, as well as a periscope that allows you to observe the city in 360º in real time.
The Castle of São Jorge has well-kept gardens, offering visitors a pleasant place to stroll. It is undoubtedly a popular venue for cultural events, including concerts, festivals, and exhibitions. These initiatives reinforce the importance of the Castle as a living space, not just as a museum piece, but as an integral part of the city’s cultural dynamics.
Due to its exceptional location, São Jorge Castle stands out from all the viewpoints in Lisbon for the unique and majestic views that it allows you to enjoy.
Practical tips for visiting São Jorge Castle
- Hours: Open daily, usually between 9 am and 9 pm (closes earlier in winter).
- Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online to avoid queues, with reduced prices for children, students, and Lisbon residents.
- Accessibility: Due to the historical nature of the site, some areas are not fully accessible to people with reduced mobility, but there are adapted routes.
- Best time to visit: Late afternoon, to enjoy the sunset views over Lisbon and the Tagus River.
- How to get there: On foot from the historic center, by tram (line 28), or by tourist tuk-tuk, a very popular option among visitors.
