Sesimbra Castle

In one of the most beautiful places on the outskirts of Lisbon stands Sesimbra Castle. With a view of the town’s incredible bay, it was built at a time that pre-dates the founding of the Portuguese nation, even though the walls you see when you visit date from 1200. Constructed by King Sancho I in the Romanesque style, it made use of the previous Moorish fortifications, from which it gained its name in the region as the “Castle of the Moors”. The view from it of the amazing landscape of the region, and in particular the Tróia peninsula, Tejo and Sado river estuaries and the impressive Cape Espichel, is unique. In an excellent state of preservation and with original elements still standing – including the church of Nossa Senhora do Castelo, built in 1160 – this imposing monument to the history of Portugal is well worth a visit.