Spine Fortress

Category: Military Architecture > Fort

District: Lisboa > Sintra > Azoia > Colares

Location

Forte do Espinhaço is located in the village of Azoia, part of the civil parish of Colares, municipality of Sintra. Its location is particularly striking, rising atop the imposing coastal cliffs south of Cabo da Roca. From there, one can enjoy a vast and stunning panoramic view over the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean, with the cliffs forming a natural landscape of great beauty. Reaching the fort may involve a challenging access path, but the experience of contemplating the landscape and the historical remains justifies the journey.

Past and Military Purpose

Built in the 17th century, most likely during the late reign of D. João IV or already under the regency of D. Pedro II, Forte do Espinhaço was a crucial element in Lisbon's maritime defense. It was part of an extensive line of coastal fortifications, designed to safeguard the entrance to the Tagus estuary against incursions by pirates, privateers, and other naval threats, in an era of great strategic importance for Portugal after the Restoration of Independence. Descriptions from the time portray it as a modest fort, but equipped with artillery and with necessary dependencies to house its small garrison, including a powder magazine for storing gunpowder.

Remains and Current Character

From what was once a coastal watch and defense post, Forte do Espinhaço is today a set of ruins, where some sections of the walls and a vaulted part of the old powder magazine can be observed. Despite the advanced state of degradation, these remains were recognized for their historical importance, having been classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1977. Visitors to the site can appreciate not only the features of the military architecture but also the spectacular natural landscape that surrounds it. In the fort's courtyard, a discreet gravestone commemorates the memory of a fisherman who disappeared in the area in 2006. There are also interesting reports about the presence of three old cannons, which are allegedly located about ten meters deep inside the remaining structure.

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