Category: Military Architecture > Castle
District: Faro > Silves > Silves > Sé
, 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.
, 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.
, 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.
, 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.
, 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.
, 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.
, 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.
, 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.
, 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.
, 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.
, 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.
, 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 caused by earthquakes in the 14th, 16th and 18th centuries.
, Siltation of the Arade River and economic decline contributed to gradual abandonment.
, 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.
, 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.
, 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.
, 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.
, 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