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The Fort of São Julião, in Oeiras, is the largest maritime defense construction in Portugal. In the 16th century, during the reign of D. João III, the construction of the Fort began. Miguel Arruda is responsible for the construction of this work, being one of the most famous architects of the time.
In addition, the Fort has been expanded over the centuries, thanks to its strategic position, considered of great importance for the defense of the entrance to the Tagus. In this way, the city of Lisbon could be protected from enemy attacks from the sea.
The Fort of São Julião and its purposes
Following the military mission of defense, the Fort of S. Julião functioned, from 1802 onwards, as an educational college, for the children of the soldiers of the Artillery Regiment of the Court, installed there – the genesis of the Military College.
Like other fortifications, the Fort of São Julião da Barra also served as a military and political prison. The case of General Gomes Freire de Andrade was famous, who was detained in São Julião da Barra and was executed in the land adjacent to the fortification.
Decommissioned from its defensive function in 1947, it began to be used, from 1951 onwards, for new state functions and for hosting political events. Here, among others, General Eisenhower and Field Marshal Montgomery were stationed. In July 1957, the fort was classified as a – Property of Public Interest – and is currently under the supervision of the Ministry of National Defense.
Today it is the official residence of the Portuguese Minister of Defense; nevertheless, it is a place where cultural initiatives regularly take place.
It is worth discovering the history protected by the moats and bastions at the entrance to the city of Lisbon and enjoying the impressive panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
