Aljezur Castle

Category: Military Architecture > Castle

District: Faro > Aljezur > Aljezur

Location and Access

The castle is located in Aljezur, a town in the district of Faro, Portugal. It sits atop an isolated hill, offering panoramic views of the Ribeira de Aljezur (Aljezur Stream) and the surrounding plain. Access to the castle can be made via the streets Cerro do Castelo and D. Pires Paio Correia.

Composition and Structure

The castle has an irregular polygonal layout, with straight walls, solid towers, and a circular north tower. The walls are approximately 1.5 meters thick and 3 to 5 meters high. The parade ground includes a cistern in the northwest corner and compartments with trapezoidal and rectangular layouts built against the walls.

History

The castle site shows evidence of occupation dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages. It was used during the Roman and Islamic periods and later reconquered. The castle is believed to have been founded in the 10th century during the Islamic period. It was reconquered by Christian forces in the mid-13th century and granted to the Order of Santiago.

Importance and Conservation

Aljezur Castle is considered one of the most impressive and important castles in the Algarve. It was classified as a Property of Public Interest (Imóvel de Interesse Público) in 1977 and is under special protection. Its strategic location and historical architecture attract visitors interested in the region's history and culture.

Archaeological Finds and Discoveries

The castle contains artifacts from different occupations over the centuries, including pottery, such as bowls and amphorae, and metal objects. Evidence related to diet and economic activities, such as fishing, agriculture, and livestock farming during the Islamic period, has also been found.

State of Conservation and Reconstruction

The castle was damaged by the 1755 Earthquake but was partially reconstructed between 1940 and 1941 as part of national commemorations. Despite this, some parts still preserve their integration with the natural rock, and the walls and towers bear witness to its past grandeur.

Panoramic View and Surrounding Landscapes

The castle's location atop the hill offers a stunning view of the Ribeira de Aljezur (Aljezur Stream) and the surrounding landscape, including the coastline. Visitors can appreciate the region's natural beauty and explore the historical connection between the castle, the town of Aljezur, and the surrounding landscape.

Significance in Portuguese History

According to tradition, Aljezur Castle is considered one of the Algarve castles represented on the Flag of Portugal. Its history is intertwined with the Christian Reconquista and the Order of Santiago, which played a significant role.

History

The castle dates back to the 13th century and played a strategic role in the Christian reconquest of the region. For several centuries, the castle was abandoned but underwent restoration work in the 1940s, 1980s, and 2000s.

Restoration and Conservation

Between 1940 and 1941, significant restoration work was carried out on the castle walls. In subsequent years, improvements were made to the castle's lighting and conservation. The site was classified as a Property of Public Interest (Imóvel de Interesse Público) in 1977.

Archaeology

The castle was the subject of archaeological research in the 1980s and 1990s, revealing evidence from the Bronze Age, Iron Age, Roman, and Islamic periods. These discoveries enrich the understanding of the region's history.

Protection and Enhancement

Protection and enhancement measures have been implemented for the castle, including the creation of a Special Protection Zone (Zona de Especial Proteção). The site is also accessible on Google Maps for viewing via Street View.

Local Legends

The castle is associated with several local legends, such as the legend of Mareares, which tells of the castle's conquest by Christians with the help of a Moorish woman named Maria Aires. Other legends mention entering the castle via a nearby spring and the supposed use of sweet potatoes as magical food by the Christians.

Events and Activities

Aljezur Castle hosts cultural events, such as painting exhibitions, urban sketching sessions, and musical activities. Additionally, future interventions are planned, including the musealisation of the monument and the creation of a visitor centre.

Location and View

The castle offers panoramic views of the town of Aljezur, the Atlantic Ocean, and Amoreira Beach. Its privileged location provides a unique experience for visitors.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castelo_de_Aljezur

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt