Castelo de São Jorge, or the São Jorge Castle, is one of Lisbon’s most emblematic landmarks. The Castle’s profile stands out both daily and when illuminated at night. Castelo de Sao Jorge is located at the summit of São Jorge hill, the highest point in Lisbon. The hillside also houses the city’s neighborhoods, Alfama and Castelo.

During the 5th century, the Visigoths built a small fortress. The fortress was modified and enlarged by the Moors in the mid-eleventh century. During the reign of Afonso I of Portugal (1109 – 1185), the alteration of Sao Jorge Castle occurred. Later, the property was transformed into a royal palace. Finally, the Castelo de São Jorge restoration was completed in 1938.

The Castle reached its maximum structural marvel during the thirteenth century. It remained packed until the sixteenth century. Then São Jorge Castle’s occupation was maintained by both the Portuguese Kingdom and the Catholic Bishops.

However, recently, Archeologists uncovered Phoenician, Greek, and Carthaginian ruins only a few years ago.

Visiting São Jorge Castle

To visit São Jorge Castle, you must budget approximately the whole morning. The site is extensive and will take you significant time to explore. There are 11 towers in São Jorge Castle, and you can visit a small museum, bar, and restaurant. After your visit, we recommend you walk along some of the surrounding streets. Moreover, São Jorge Hill also houses the Lisbon Cathedral. 

The premiere views of the east side of Lisbon await you at the canopy of the fortress.

Atypical Last Thoughts

If you visit Lisbon, you should see Castel de São Jorge. While up there, explore the area and observe the unique statues. You will learn about some of the history involved in this area. 

The São Jorge Castle location possesses numerous places to get a great dinner with a view. So, as you explore this area, enjoy a glass of wine and experience São Jorge’s Hill. Budget plenty of time when you explore Lisbon. There are thousands of years of history to discover.

If you have not subscribed, please consider subscribing to learn more about traveling, history, and some of these hidden gems. If you are looking for other hidden gems in Portugal, you should check out Penela Castle. Or if you are exploring Germany afterwards, stop in and visit Nuremberg’s Imperial Castle.

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