Category: Military Architecture > Fortress
District: Lisboa > Oeiras > São Julião da Barra > Catalazete
The Fort of Nossa Senhora das Mercês de Catalazete is located in the Catalazete urbanization, in São Julião da Barra, in the municipality of Oeiras. This coastal fortification is strategically positioned on the right bank of the Tagus River estuary, offering a privileged perspective over the river mouth and the ocean. Its location provides a panoramic view of the Oeiras coastline.
Built in 1762, the fort began as a small artillery battery. Its construction was part of a broader effort to reinforce the maritime defense of the Tagus bar, complementing the existing system of fortifications. Initially, it was a simple masonry wall, which quickly evolved into a more robust structure, designed to house artillery pieces and a garrison.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the fort remained almost always garrisoned and militarily capable. One of the most significant moments in its history occurred in 1831, when its artillery returned fire against a French squadron that forced its way into the Tagus bar, this being the only recorded combat in which the fort was involved. With the evolution of warfare means, the fort lost its defensive function and, in the mid-19th century, it was deactivated, entering a period of degradation and abandonment. Later, in the 20th century, it was significantly damaged by a cyclone in 1941, but subsequently restored and adapted for new purposes.
The Fort of Nossa Senhora das Mercês de Catalazete exhibits an irregular pentagonal plan, a common feature in coastal fortifications of the era. On the sea-facing walls, various embrasures can be observed, openings intended for artillery pieces. Notable are the three circular sentry boxes, located at the salient angles of the structure, each covered by a conical dome. Inside, on the parade ground, stands a two-story building with a rectangular plan, covered by a hip roof.
After a multifaceted historical journey, which included use as a private residence and even a holiday camp, the Fort of Catalazete currently serves other purposes. Since 1977, its facilities have been managed by the Portuguese Youth Hostels Association. Although its official classification as architectural heritage is still under study, the fort remains a significant landmark in the Oeiras landscape, bearing witness to centuries of history and transformation.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.67789066, -9.31758784
Coordinates DMS: 38°40'40.4"N 09°19'3.3"W
On-duty Pharmacy São Julião da Barra
