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São Jorge Castle
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Landmark
Saint George's Castle (Castelo de São Jorge) commands the highest hill in Lisbon and remains one of the Portuguese capital's most iconic landmarks. While the hill has been fortified since ancient times, the current structure dates primarily back to the Moorish period in the 11th century. In 1147, during the Reconquista, Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal, captured the castle with the help of crusaders. From the 13th to the early 16th century, the castle served as the official royal residence before the court moved to the riverfront. The site features eleven towers, thick defensive walls, and a large inner courtyard shaded by pine trees. Its battlements offer an unparalleled panoramic view of the Alfama district, the Tagus River, and the 25th of April Bridge. Within the castle grounds, visitors can explore an archaeological site and a museum housing artifacts that trace the hill's history from the Iron Age to the modern era.
- Location: Portugal
- Top sights: São Jorge Castle · Núcleo Arqueológico do Castelo de São Jorge · Núcleo Museológico do Castelo de São Jorge
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 18 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 22 | 19 | 14 | 11 |
| Rain mm | 60 | 51 | 60 | 54 | 34 | 13 | 3 | 5 | 28 | 78 | 86 | 61 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
São Jorge Castle is open to visitors, allowing access to the ramparts and towers. You can explore the interior rooms and enjoy panoramic views over Lisbon.
Typical hours
The castle typically opens daily, with longer hours in summer and shorter in winter. Public holidays may affect opening times - always check ahead.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the castle grounds. Flash is typically prohibited inside to protect the exhibits and atmosphere.
Time needed
A typical visit to São Jorge Castle takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Allow extra time if you wish to linger over the views and explore the gardens.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a walk through the historic Alfama district. The nearby Largo do Chafariz de Dentro square is also worth a stop.
Getting there
The castle is easily reached by tram line 28 or bus 737. From the city center you can also walk up the hill in about 20 minutes.
Insider tip
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially in peak season. Weekday admission is typically cheaper than weekend tickets.
Geography
Facts
- The castle was captured in 1147 after a four-month siege.
- There are 11 remaining towers, including the Keep and the Tower of Ulysses.
- It served as the primary royal palace until the early 16th century.
- The 1755 earthquake caused significant damage to the structure.
- A periscope providing a 360-degree view is located in one of the towers.
- The castle was designated a National Monument in 1910.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town São Jorge Castle (10)
Núcleo Museológico do Castelo de São Jorge🏛 museum
Museum opened in 2008, displaying finds from excavations since 1996.
Igreja de Santa Cruz do Castelo
18th-century church built on the foundations of an earlier church.
Teatro Taborda
Theatre in Lisbon, Portugal.
Tower & Exhibition of the Castle's church
Tower and exhibition about the history of the castle church.
Miradouro do Castelo de São Jorge
Viewpoint offering a comprehensive view over Lisbon.
Palácio da Rosa🏰 castle
Urban palace rebuilt in the 18th century, origin unknown.
Taborda
Theatre in Lisbon, Portugal.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to get to the castle?
Take the historic tram 28 or bus 737.
Are there viewpoints?
Yes, the castle features one of the best panoramic views of Lisbon.
Are the queues long at the entrance?
In peak season yes, it is recommended to buy tickets online in advance.
Are there peacocks there?
Yes, many peacocks live freely in the castle gardens.
What is the Camera Obscura?
An optical system in the tower projecting live images of the city.
São Jorge Castle: where is it located?
São Jorge Castle is located in Portugal.
São Jorge Castle: what is there to see?
Highlights include São Jorge Castle, Núcleo Arqueológico do Castelo de São Jorge, Núcleo Museológico do Castelo de São Jorge.
São Jorge Castle: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
São Jorge Castle: why is it worth visiting?
Saint George's Castle (Castelo de São Jorge) commands the highest hill in Lisbon and remains one of the Portuguese capital's most iconic landmarks.
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