Moorish Castle (Sintra)

Moorish Castle (Sintra)

The Moorish Castle is located on a mountaintop in the civil parish of Santa Maria e São Miguel in Sintra. It is one of Portugal’s most renowned medieval castles and was designated a National Monument in 1910, making it a key highlight for visitors to Sintra.

The Moorish Castle was constructed between the 8th and 9th centuries, during the period when the Iberian Peninsula was under Arab rule. For many first-time Chinese visitors, the castle’s first impression resembles China’s Great Wall — twisting and turning with multiple watchtowers. Perched on the highest peak of the Sintra Mountains, the castle is surrounded by walls that once extended for several hundred meters. These fortifications had lost their military function by the 15th and 16th centuries. After a challenging climb, visitors can reach the top of the castle, where the Portuguese flag proudly stands. From the high vantage points, you can gaze at the vast Atlantic Ocean and the scenic town of Sintra. On clear days, the views may even extend to Ericeira and Mafra.

Running your hands over the remnants of the Moorish Castle’s stones and looking out over the lush plains and winding coastline from the ramparts, a sense of openness naturally arises — perhaps what the Spanish would call serenity and inclusiveness.

Castle of the Moors (Sintra)

Must-visit reason: Portugal’s most historically significant castle

Continent: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region: Portugal

Province/State: Lisbon District

City: Sintra