Category: Military Architecture > Citadel
District: Lisboa > Cascais > Cascais > Gandarinha
The Citadel of Cascais stands majestically in the picturesque coastal town of Cascais, in the Lisbon district. Situated on the northern shore of Cascais Bay, its position offers sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean, serving as a key strategic point for maritime defense. Since 1977, this remarkable military complex has been classified as a Property of Public Interest, recognizing its historical and architectural significance to Portuguese heritage.
Originally conceived as a robust military structure, the Citadel's primary mission was to safeguard the coast and the access to the Tagus River estuary, forming a vital line of defense for the capital, Lisbon. Its evolution over the centuries reflects its adaptation to the strategic and military needs of the time. This complex played a central role in crucial moments in Portuguese history, such as the Restoration of Independence and the Peninsular War, affirming itself as an undeniable strategic point.
The vast complex of the Citadel is composed of distinct elements that bear witness to its long history. The Fortress of Our Lady of Light of Cascais, one of its cornerstones, originated from a primitive medieval tower, the Tower of Cascais. This structure was subject to significant reforms and expansions in the 16th and 17th centuries, culminating in its current triangular shape. Its construction was completed in 1681, during the reign of King Pedro II, consolidating it as an essential piece in the vast coastal defense plan. The fortified tower of Cascais, the oldest structure in the complex, is the visible testament to the site's earliest defenses, having been later integrated and reinforced by the rest of the complex.
Within its walls lies the Palace of the Citadel of Cascais, a building of great historical and political significance. From 1870, this palace served as the summer residence for the Portuguese Royal Family and, after 1910, for the Presidency of the Republic. After a period of disuse, the Palace was restored and reopened to the public in 2004. A visit allows one to explore the rich history and architecture of its interior spaces, such as the imposing Arab room and the chapel, offering a perspective on the life and events that took place here.
More recently, in March 2014, the Citadel embraced a new role with the inauguration of the Cidadela Art District. This space transformed part of the complex into a platform dedicated to contemporary art, hosting galleries and artist studios. Its goal is to bring art to a wider audience, energizing the Citadel's atmosphere through exhibitions and various cultural events, lending it a current and vibrant artistic dimension.
Throughout its existence, the Citadel of Cascais has made its mark on history not only for its defensive function but also for its innovations. It was one of the first places in Portugal to benefit from electric lighting, a pioneering technology introduced in 1878, demonstrating the spirit of modernization that was also felt there.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cidadela_de_Cascais
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.69390120743569,-9.41939377664695
Coordinates DMS: 38°41'38.0"N 09°25'9.8"W
Weather Cascais
On-duty Pharmacy Cascais
