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Silves Castle

Category: Military Architecture > Castle

District: Faro > Silves > Silves > Sé

Importance and Location

, One of the most important castles from the Muslim period in Portugal, located in Silves, Algarve.

, Offers panoramic views of the city of Portimão and the Serra de Monchique mountain range.

, Controlled river navigation along the Arade River.

Composition

, Alcáçova (fortress) and the town walls (walls).

, Alcáçova with a plan in the shape of an irregular polygon and eleven towers.

, Highlight for the Porta da Almedina, historic entrance.

, Reconstructed gardens with plants characteristic of the period.

Alcáçova

, Largest structure of its kind in the Algarve and one of the most important monuments in the region.

, Built during the Almohad Caliphate, with massive military rammed earthwork.

, It has a tall keep, turrets, square towers and battlements.

, Highlight for the Porta da Traição (Traitors' Gate), secondary entrance.

Palace of the Balconies

, Remains of a two-story palace-fortress found inside the alcáçova.

, Unique Islamic palace known in Portugal.

, It had rooms, alcoves, patios and interior gardens.

, Coverings in marbles, tiles and detailed stucco.

History

, Built during the Islamic occupation, reaching its peak in the 11th century.

, Suffered destruction during Christian military campaigns.

, Reconstructed in the 12th and 13th centuries.

, Classified as a National Monument in 1910.

, Restored by the government in the 1940s.

Cultural Importance

, Inspiration for poets and artists, as mentioned in the poem by Al-Mutamid.

, Represents the era and lifestyle of the Luso-Arabs.

, Attracted more than 200,000 visitors in 2014.

Historical Origins

, Possible pre-Roman occupation by Lusitanian peoples.

, Importance as a commercial and military center during Roman rule.

, Visigothic presence with the discovery of a religious building.

Muslim Period

, Conquest by the Moors and strengthening of defenses.

, Architectural features common to fortresses of the Umayyad period.

, Development of the castle and alcáçova during the Almoravid and Almohad periods.

, Silves as the capital of a taifa under the command of Al-Mutamid.

Christian Reconquest

, Military campaign led by D. Sancho I in 1189.

, Employment of foreign mercenaries, including Nordic crusaders.

, Attacks, skirmishes and siege of the city.

, Use of siege engines, such as catapults, in the gradual conquest of the walls.

, Difficulties faced by the defenders, such as lack of water and food.

, Final surrender of the Muslims and Christian rule.

Current State

, Visitation of the castle and alcáçova.

, Walls, towers and preserved architectural remains.

, Panoramic view of the city and the Arade River.

, Historical and cultural importance of the site.

, Cultural events and exhibitions held at the castle.

Construction and Reconquest

, Built in the 13th century and strengthened after the Christian conquest in 1249.

, Strategic role in the defense of the city.

, Later reconstructions to strengthen defenses.

Historical Importance

, Silves as an important urban center in the medieval Algarve.

, Relevant role in disputes between Portuguese and Castilians for control of the Algarve.

, Reconstruction works in the alcáçova in the 14th and 15th centuries.

Damage and Abandonment

, Damage caused by earthquakes in the 14th, 16th and 18th centuries.

, Siltation of the Arade River and economic decline contributed to gradual abandonment.

Restoration and Conservation

, Restoration works in the 20th century, including the removal of the prison that occupied the castle.

, Consolidation of structures, reconstruction of damaged parts and cleaning of the area.

National Monument

, Classified as a National Monument in 1910.

, Important tourist attraction in Silves, offering a fascinating view of history and medieval architecture.

, Houses a municipal museum and allows exploring preserved towers and walls.

Visits and Attractions

, Panoramic views of the city and the Arade River from the castle walls.

, Municipal museum with historical artifacts.

, Exploration of towers and ramparts, such as the Keep and the Almedina Tower.

Events and Festivals

, Stage for cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the International Festival of Academic Tunas and the Medieval Fairs.

, Historical and vibrant atmosphere of the city during these events.

Practical Information

, Located in Silves, Algarve, Portugal.

, Comfortable footwear is recommended during the visit.

, Check updated visiting hours and entrance fees before planning your visit.

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

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

Coordinates DD: 37.190528,-8.438214
Coordinates DMS: 37°11'25.9"N 08°26'17.6"W

Weather Silves  Weather Silves

Sunday, 03
Clear sky
26° | 30°
Clear sky
Monday, 04
Broken clouds
22° | 29°
Broken clouds
Tuesday, 05
Scattered clouds
21° | 31°
Scattered clouds
Wednesday, 06
Clear sky
22° | 31°
Clear sky
Thursday, 07
Broken clouds
20° | 31°
Broken clouds
Friday, 08
Clear sky
17° | 18°
Clear sky

On-duty Pharmacy Silves  On-duty Pharmacy Silves

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