Explore Castelo de São Jorge in Lisbon

Name: Castelo de São Jorge
Address: Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo, Lisboa, Lisboa, 1100-129, PT
Rating: 4.4

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Explore Castelo de São Jorge in Lisbon

Overview

Castelo de São Jorge, a majestic fortress situated in Lisbon, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Roman times, evolving through the Visigoths and Moors. Originally a fortified Moorish palace in the 11th century, it later transformed into a royal residence after the city was conquered by King Afonso Henrique I in 1147. Named in honor of Saint George, the castle has witnessed numerous significant historical events, including coronations and military functions. Despite suffering from damage during the catastrophic 1755 earthquake, the castle's robust fortifications and 18 original towers withstand the test of time. Today, visitors can explore its archaeological exhibits, climb the ramparts for panoramic views, and wander through the serene castle gardens, home to a vibrant array of wildlife. The site also features the Tower of Ulysses, which houses a unique periscope machine. With echoes of its storied past, Castelo de São Jorge remains a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Reviews

Raj Sharma

India

Interesting castle with fantastic views of the city. It is mostly preserved in its historic condition, so don’t expect a manicured view of life in the castle. If you enjoy walking around the grounds and exploring the castle walls, this place is great. Honestly, the views alone are worth the visit, and seeing the castle is an added bonus! Plus, the peacocks are super cool.

James Smith

USA

This castle is amazing. We had a great walk up the hill to it, although you can also take the tram or bus. A leisurely stroll with stops at the bars and cafes is recommended, and you won't be disappointed when you reach the top. There is an entrance fee, but there's plenty to see and do once inside. Watch out for the peacocks! And the views are incredible!

Chris Ackland

USA

A nice place to visit - definitely worth the money. You can explore most of the castle in about an hour. There are great viewpoints over the city. There are also small exhibition rooms showcasing interesting artifacts. Surprisingly, there were many peacocks walking and flying around, which was oddly memorable! Overall, it was worth the trip, and there’s a nice walk down to the old town after.

Linda Johnson

USA

Well worth a visit and the uphill walk to get here! There are great views of Lisbon when you reach the upper levels of the castle. It was also quite interesting seeing numerous peacocks wandering around. The food, drinks, and ice cream are reasonably priced, which was a surprise considering they are at one of Lisbon's top attractions. I appreciated the concession prices for youths aged 13 to 25.

Marco Rossi

Italy

Incredible views and rich history! 🏰👀 The São Jorge Castle is absolutely a highlight of Lisbon! 🇵🇹 The views from the castle over the city are breathtaking—perfect for capturing pictures of Lisbon’s beautiful skyline. 📸🌆 The castle itself is steeped in history, with fascinating exhibits and ruins to explore. The walk around the grounds is peaceful, allowing you to get lost in the ancient walls and pathways. 🏰🛖 The €15 entry fee is definitely worth it for the experience and the panoramic views. 🌄 It’s a must-see spot in Lisbon, especially if you love history and scenic views! A little tip: Be prepared for some steep paths, but the view at the top makes it all worthwhile! 🏞️😊