Castle of the Moors: Entrance Ticket
Visit this historic castle and get some of the best views of Sintra
- Entrance to the Castle of the Moors
Castle of the Moors Tickets and Information
- Castle of the Moors Address: Sintra, 2710-405, Sintra
- Opening Hours: 09:00 - 18:00
Is Castle of the Moors in Sintra worth visiting
- If you like historic buildings steeped in history, then definitely, yes.
What you see when visiting Castle of the Moors
- The castle
- Artefacts from the Bronze Age, Iron Age and the Neolithic period
- Ruins of the Moorish structures
- Incredible views of Sintra
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About Castle of the Moors in Sintra
The Castle of the Moors, also known as ‘Castelo dos Mouros’ in Portuguese, is a historic castle located in the town of Sintra.
Built on top of a hill which overlooks the town and offers incredible panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, the castle is a prominent landmark in the region.
The castle dates back to the 8th and 9th centuries, which was during the period of Moorish rule in the Iberian Peninsula. It was constructed by the Moors as part of their defensive network in the region and it played a strategic role in controlling the region and guarding the town of Sintra.
The castle features a blend of Moorish and mediaeval European architectural styles due to the period it was constructed and includes big strong stone walls, towers, and battlements that snake along the rugged terrain of the hill. The design reflects the defensive nature of the structure, with strategic lookout points and fortified walls.
As it’s perched on a hill, it offers commanding views of the surrounding landscape, including the town of Sintra, the Sintra Mountains, and the Atlantic Ocean, which it used to its advantage to protect the area.
The castle fell into disrepair over time and was left abandoned, however, in the 19th century there was a renewed interest in preserving historic sites and extensive restoration work was undertaken to restore the castle to its former glory.
Today, the Castle of the Moors is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sintra and welcomes visitors from around the world who come and explore the castle's walls, towers, and ramparts, as well as enjoy the stunning views from its elevated position.
The castle's historical significance, architectural beauty, and scenic surroundings make it a must-visit destination for travellers visiting Sintra.
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Castle of the Moors FAQs
- Is Castle of the Moors in Sintra wheelchair accessible?
- Yes, Castle of the Moors is wheelchair accessible.
- Do I need to book tickets in advance for Castle of the Moors in Sintra?
- We always suggest booking tickets in advance if you know when you plan to visit, yes. The Castle of the Moors is one of the area's most popular tourist attractions so it gets busy, especially during the summer months. Booking in advance means you can book your preferred time and date!
- What is the Castle of the Moors in Sintra?
- The Castle of the Moors is a medieval fortress that sits on a hilltop in Sintra. It was built during the 8th and 9th centuries by the Moors to protect the region.
- Where is the Castle of the Moors?
- Castle of the Moors is in the Sintra Mountains, near the town of Sintra, about 30 km (19 miles) northwest of Lisbon.
- Who built the Castle of the Moors?
- The Moors, Islamic rulers who controlled parts of the Iberian Peninsula, built the castle during their reign in the region.
- When was the Castle of the Moors constructed?
- The castle was originally constructed in the 8th or 9th century and later restored in the 19th century.
- What was the purpose of the Castle of the Moors?
- It served as a strategic military stronghold to monitor and protect the region.
- Is the Castle of the Moors a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
- Yes, it is part of the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- What can you see at the Castle of the Moors in Sintra?
- You can explore the walls, towers, cisterns, and ruins while enjoying panoramic views of Sintra and the surrounding areas.
- What is the best way to reach the Castle of the Moors?
- You can reach Castle of the Moors by walking, taking a bus, or driving. Many opt for a scenic hike from Sintra town.
- Can you walk along the castle walls at Castle of the Moors in Sintra?
- Yes, you can walk along the castle walls and towers. They offer spectacular views.
- What makes the Castle of the Moors unique?
- Its location on a dramatic hilltop, its well-preserved medieval walls, and its blend of history and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination, in our opinion!
Castle of the Moors Fun Facts
- Origins in the Moorish Era: It was built by North African Moors to defend their territory in Portugal.
- Reconquest by Christians: The castle was captured by King Afonso Henriques during the Christian Reconquest in 1147.
- 19th-Century Restoration: King Ferdinand II restored the castle in the 19th century, adding romantic touches.
- Panoramic Views: On clear days, you can see the Atlantic Ocean and Lisbon from the castle.
- Ancient Cistern: An ancient Moorish cistern is still visible and was used to store water.
- Sintra’s Microclimate: The beautiful vegetation that surrounds the castle is a result of Sintra’s unique microclimate.
- Linked to Sintra Palace: The castle's location allowed it to communicate with the National Palace of Sintra using signals.
- Chapel Ruins: The site includes ruins of a medieval Christian chapel dedicated to St. Peter.
- Lunar Connection: The castle’s location and its dramatic walls look particularly magical under moonlight, inspiring local legends.
Useful Information About Castle of the Moors
Top tips for visiting Castle of the Moors:
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Castle of the Moors is located on a steep hill, and exploring it involves a fair amount of walking on uneven, cobblestone paths and climbing stairs. Wearing comfortable shoes will help you!
- Check the Weather and Dress Accordingly: The weather in Sintra can be quite variable, with cooler temperatures and fog common due to its elevation. Make sure to check the forecast and dress in layers. Bringing a light jacket or sweater is advisable even in summer.
- Arrive Early or Late in the Day: The castle can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid the largest crowds and have a more pleasant experience, try to visit early in the morning when it opens or later in the afternoon. This also provides better opportunities for photos without many people in the background.
- Bring Water and Snacks: There are limited facilities for food and drink within the castle grounds, so it's a good idea to bring your own water and some light snacks. Staying hydrated and having a snack on hand can make your visit more enjoyable, especially after the hike up to the castle.
How to get there
- Castelo dos Mouros Sintra, 2710-405, Sintra
Opening Hours
- Monday: 09:00 - 18:30
- Tuesday: 09:00 - 18:30
- Wednesday: 09:00 - 18:30
- Thursday: 09:00 - 18:30
- Friday: 09:00 - 18:30
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:30
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:30
