Fort of São Jorge de Oitavos

Category: Military Architecture > Fort

District: Lisboa > Cascais > Cascais e Estoril > São Jorge de Oitavos

Location

Located in the urbanisation of São Jorge de Oitavos, in the municipality of Cascais, Forte de São Jorge stands imposingly on a coastal cliff. Its position offers a wide perspective over the Atlantic, marking the landscape between the Guia promontory and Cabo Raso. This location provides an environment of proximity to the sea, characteristic of the Cascais and Estoril coastline.

A Strategic Point on the Coast

The history of Forte de São Jorge de Oitavos dates back to the 17th century, having been built between 1641 and 1643. Its construction was part of the Portuguese Restoration War, aiming to complement the defensive system of the Tagus River bar. The fort's primary function was to prevent enemy landings along the coastal stretch between Praia do Guincho and Praia da Guia, housing a small garrison for the surveillance and protection of this important section of the coast.

Architectural Features

The architecture of Forte de São Jorge de Oitavos is a remarkable example of adaptation to the irregular terrain where it is situated. It features a polygonal plan with unequal sides, directly supported by the cliff. Despite its compact dimensions, the fort included a battery on the esplanade, a cistern, and various essential dependencies for the garrison's life, such as the old barracks, the kitchen, and the gunpowder magazine. Its defensive capability was reinforced by covered sentry boxes at salient angles and a musketry line, details that reveal the military engineering of the time.

Memories of an Era

Reclassified as a Property of Public Interest in 1974, Forte de São Jorge de Oitavos underwent restoration to preserve its patrimonial value. Currently, it offers visitors the opportunity to explore its interior and learn about its historical significance. Thematic exhibitions address the fort's role in Cascais' coastal defensive system and aspects of the daily life of military garrisons. One of the exhibition nuclei recreates the atmosphere of the late 18th century, presenting elements such as replicas of uniforms and instruments used in the fort's daily activities, inviting an immersion into the military life of that period.

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