Fort of São Domingos da Baralha

Category: Military Architecture > Fort

District: Setúbal > Sesimbra > Sesimbra (Castelo)

Location:

The Fort of São Domingos da Baralha stands next to Praia da Baleeira, in the coastal area that stretches between Cabo Espichel and the town of Sesimbra. Situated approximately twenty-seven meters above sea level, this location offers a wide perspective over the ocean and the Arrábida coastline.

Located in a more isolated rural area, the fort is now a point of interest integrated into the Chã dos Navegantes hiking trail, providing a natural and scenic setting for those exploring the region on foot.

Origins and Defensive Purpose:

This fort, sometimes known as Forte da Baralha, dates back to the 17th century. Its construction was part of the coastal defense strategy outlined by D. João IV to protect the kingdom, having been initiated during the reign of D. Afonso VI and completed under D. Pedro II.

The main objective of the fortification was the safeguarding and vigilance of this coastal strip, considered, at the time, one of the first defense points of the Arrábida coast. It thus contributed to the Crown's presence in this territory, ensuring control and protection of the local populations.

Architecture and the Mark of History:

With a rectangular plan, the fort included service buildings and a cistern, essential elements for its functionality. Despite its defensive purpose, the Fort of São Domingos da Baralha witnessed moments of great vulnerability.

A notable example occurred on June 21, 1808, during the Peninsular War, when the fortification was attacked by English forces, allies of Portugal. On that day, the eight artillery pieces that equipped the fort were thrown into the sea, marking the beginning of a period of abandonment and degradation. Over the years, and due to the absence of conservation policies, the structure deteriorated, subject to the action of time. Currently, what remains of the fort are ruins, but the imposing nature of its curtain wall and the visibility of the cistern continue to be a testament to its past importance. The coat of arms that once topped the entrance was collected and is now preserved in the collection of the Sesimbra Municipal Museum, safeguarding a part of its identity.

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