Fort of São Vicente of Torres Vedras

Category: Military Architecture > Fort

District: Lisboa > Torres Vedras > Torres Vedras > Santa Maria, São Pedro e Matacães

Location

São Vicente Fort stands majestically atop one of the highest points embracing the valley of Torres Vedras. Its dominant position, in the area of Santa Maria, São Pedro, and Matacães, offers a wide perspective over the surrounding landscape. From this privileged location, the view encompasses the city and its surroundings, highlighting the strategic importance the fort once held in the region's defense.

Its Historical Origin

This fort is a significant testament to Portuguese military history. Its construction began in 1809, a time of great turmoil: the French Invasions. Integrated into the vast defensive system known as the Lines of Torres Vedras, São Vicente Fort was designed to protect the crucial road connecting Coimbra to Lisbon, playing a fundamental role in the defense strategy against the invading forces of the Peninsular War.

A Robust Construction

The architecture of São Vicente Fort reflects its defensive function. The complex integrates a set of three redoubts, or bastions, delineated by an extensive perimeter wall stretching for about 1,500 meters. Deep moats also separate these structures, creating an imposing defense system. At its highest point, facing east, lie the ruins of an ancient chapel, adding a touch of memory to this military edifice.

Its Role and Legacy

São Vicente Fort was one of the pillars of the Lines of Torres, designed to house thousands of men and equip itself with dozens of artillery pieces, ensuring a robust defense of the territory. Its historical and architectural importance is recognized, being classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1967. A visit to this site allows one to understand the scale and military engineering of the 19th century, offering a window into a significant period of Portuguese history.

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