Castelo dos Mouros
NileGuide Expert Says:
UNESCO World Heritage Site.Address:
Phone:
+351 (0)21 923 7390NileGuide Expert tip:
Getting there: Bus n° 434 departs from the Sintra Tourism Office. Alternatively, get fit by walking up using the GRII (E9) waymarked footpath.Description:
The 9th-century Moorish fort overlooking the town of Sintra remains an imposing landmark. Built during the Arab occupation of Portugal, the stronghold served as an important observation post for monitoring the coastline. Visitors can walk the granite walls from the Castle Keep to the Royal Tower and enjoy breathtaking coastal views from the sturdy battlements. Remains of Muslim granaries, a cistern (rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake) and the Church of São Pedro de Canaferrim, constructed during the 12th century, can be also explored. The monument and the park it's located in are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.