| Bem-vindo ao Castelo de São Jorge! São Jorge (Saint George) Castle is a large Portuguese fortress perched on a hill top just outside of Lisbon. The oldest parts of the castle date back to the 6th century when it was fortified by the Romans. It served as a royal Moorish home until it was captured in 1147 by Portugal's first king, Afonso Henriques with the help of European crusaders. It is named after St. George, the patron saint from England to memorialize the Anglo-Portuguese pact of 1371. Most of the castle was destroyed over the years. The Great Earthquake of 1755 severely damaged most of the castle, though a long extension of original walls and towers still stand today. Visitors today can still climb the towers and walk the ramparts for a beautiful view. The walls of the fortress are topped with hundreds upon hundreds of crenelations (the rigid saw-tooth pattern used for defense). Atop the castles walls an excellent panoramic view of the city can be observed. A statue of King Afonso Henriques and a series of cannons can be found once entering the main gate. The castle is very historically significant to Portugal. Vasco da Gama stayed here with the king after discovering the first maritime trade route to India. The castle has served a variety of roles, from a prison and military base, to a home for the royal family. The flag of Lisbon and Portugal are always flying over the main wall for the city below to observe. Obrigado pela visita! |