Category: Military Architecture > Fort
District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Penha de França > São João
Located in the parish of Penha de França, in the municipality of Lisbon, the Santa Apolónia Fort, also known as the Santa Apolónia Bulwark or Manique Battery, is situated in an elevated position, overlooking the Tagus River.
The fort was part of the defense line built in the 17th century during the Restoration War (1652-1668). However, it is believed that the construction was never fully completed.
Over time, it lost its military function and was integrated into the Quinta do Manique, owned by the Viscount of Manique, who added stone gates to the site. Subsequently, the estate passed to the Counts of São Vicente. In the 1940s, the remnants of the fort were privately owned.
In 1996, the Santa Apolónia Fort was classified as a Property of Public Interest. A recovery project was proposed by the Lisbon City Council, including the restoration of the walls, guardhouses, and the creation of a green space, but it is still awaiting implementation.
The recovery project proposes transforming the space into a garden overlooking the Tagus, including the construction of a playground and a cafeteria. Part of the cellars of the building built inside the fort, the Concorde Building, could be used for cultural purposes, such as a library.
The fort has a pentagonal plan and features well-defined flanks. The walls, in masonry with limestone details, follow the slope of the terrain. There are two guardhouses, two 17th-century gates, and observation areas with embrasures and stone benches.
Currently, the fort is located in a populated area with little offer of green spaces. The recovery plan aims to revitalize the site, preserving the historical heritage and offering a pleasant public space for the community and visitors.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forte_de_Santa_Apolónia
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.723826007000454,-9.116688969171767
Coordinates DMS: 38°43'25.8"N 09°07'0.1"W
Weather Penha de França
On-duty Pharmacy Penha de França
