Category: Military Architecture > Castle
District: Faro > Castro Marim > Castro Marim
The Revelim de Santo António is situated atop the Rocha do Zambujal hill, in an elevated and strategic position east of the town of Castro Marim. From this hill, it is possible to enjoy a wide panoramic view of the surroundings, encompassing the Guadiana River estuary and the vast areas of the Castro Marim Salt Marsh.
Its location offers a privileged perspective on the natural landscape and the border with Spain, marked by the river's passage.
This smaller fortification, built in the 17th century by order of D. João IV, played a vital role in the defense of the territory. Its construction, in the context of the Portuguese Restoration War (1640-1668), primarily aimed at controlling the mouth of the Guadiana River, a strategic point for the region's security.
The Revelim is thus a testament to the military importance Castro Marim held in border times.
Inside the Revelim is the Chapel of Santo António, a notable construction of Baroque architecture. It stands out for its quadrangular chancel, highlighted by robust corner pillars that give the space a distinctive character.
This chapel also houses Baroque altars and a collection of paintings illustrating scenes from the life of Saint Anthony, enriching the visit with a significant cultural and religious element.
The Revelim de Santo António complex benefited, in 2008, from a requalification project that aimed at restoring its military structure and enhancing the entire surrounding area. This work not only rehabilitated the fortification and the Chapel but also integrated new elements that enrich the visitor's experience.
The space now features a restored traditional windmill, an Andalusian Garden with its large green area, and an educational garden. There is also an open-air amphitheater, designed to host various cultural activities, and an Interpretive Centre of the Territory, which serves as a starting point for exploring the region's heritage.
The Revelim hill offers an environment conducive to contemplation. The view encompasses a natural mosaic of salt pans and salt marshes, where the presence of diverse bird species contributes to a tranquil and serene atmosphere.
The panoramic view over the Guadiana estuary and the vast plains of the Castro Marim Salt Marsh Nature Reserve invite moments of pause and observation of the rich landscape and nature of this Algarve region.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 37.216128955556, -7.4391779944444
Coordinates DMS: 37°12'58.1"N 07°26'21.0"W
On-duty Pharmacy Castro Marim
