Castles and Forts with stories

Castles and forts, symbols of defence and conquests, are peppered throughout the Algarve.

Built in strategic and powerful locations, monuments of military architecture which have survived, such as the Silves Castle, are worth a visit.  The construction of Sagres Fort in the 15^th Century was commissioned by Henry the Navigator.  Despite damages to the Fort, the Church of Our Lady of Grace and the gigantic wind compass with a 40-metre diameter, arranged with stones on the ground, have withstood the ravages of time.

On the hill in Aljezur, there is a typical mediaeval castle of Moorish origin which suffered damage during the earthquake of 1755, but still retains its two towers and a covered water tank with a ceiling.

In Lagos, the Governors’ Castle retains little of its original construction but the historical Manueline window, where it is said that Don Sebastião attended Mass before departing for the Battle of Alcácer Quibir.

On Rocha Beach in Portimão, the Fort of St Catherine of Ribamar from the 16^th Century stands out.  This fort was strategically located to defend the Algarvian coastline.