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Explore Moorish Castle in Sintra | Highlights, Visitor's Guide & More
Like a queen on her throne, the Moorish Castle sits, poised and secluded, atop one of Sintra's glorious peaks. Constructed in the 10th century, when the Moors ruled the Iberian Peninsula, the castle's walls slither across the hills like a serpent...
Also Known As
Castelo dos Mouros
Quick information
Plan your visitDid you know?
The highest tower of the Moorish Castle-the Royal Tower is located towards the southwest of the castle.
The chapel that you see inside the castle was constructed using limestone and masonry.
Before the ‘Reconquista,’ the chapel functioned as a mosque.
Moorish Castle Tickets and Tours
Quick Facts about Moorish Castle
- Official name: Castelo dos Mouros
- Location/Address: 2710-405 Sintra, Portugal
- Date of opening: Between 8-9th centuries
- Architect: Unknown
- Architectural style: Moors and Islamic architecture
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: 1995
- Number of visitors per year: More than 500,000
- Function: Castle
Plan Your Visit to Moorish Castle
Opening Hours
Location
Address: 2710-405 Sintra, Portugal
The Moorish Castle is 3.5 km from the historical centre of Sintra, standing above the ruins of the Castelo dos Mouros. You can reach it in 40 minutes by train from Lisbon.
Nearest Metro Station: Reboleira, 19.5 km
Landmarks nearby: Cisterna and Palacio da Pena Sintra Portugal
getting to Moorish CastleThings to Do at Moorish Castle
Walk along the Second Ring of Walls
Following its seizure by the King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, the castle’s defences were entrusted to the Knights Templar. This conquest prompted a significant restructuring, including the construction of a second line of walls to safeguard livestock and crops, transforming the ancient stronghold into a fortified sanctuary for the land's bounties.
Explore the Islamic neighbourhood
Moorish Castle holds an intriguing past. You can uncover its Muslim neighbourhood by discovering archaeological artefacts such as pottery fragments and ceramic vessels. Explore the ruins of homes and instruments, where subtle remnants bear witness to the Islamic heritage that once thrived within these ancient walls.
Pray at the Church of São Pedro de Canaferrim
After the Moors' defeat, the Church of São Pedro de Canaferrim emerged as Sintra's initial parish church. Crafted from sturdy granite masonry, the apse showcases captivating 15th-century Gothic paintings, adding a touch of historical allure to this sacred place of worship. Avoid visiting on Monday and Tuesday as the castle is closed.
Learn how Silos helped in food storage
People in the prehistoric era stored their food and crops in storages like Silos. You can learn how the people of the castle stored their cereal and leguminous crops in the crater-like pits. Get to know more about how this technique for storing food grains has been described in various Arabic treatises.
Understand the castle’s transformation
Moorish Castle had a different use before the conquest of Afonso Henriques. It was a Muslim neighbourhood in the 10th century, but the Portuguese King converted it into a Christian mediaeval necropolis. You can learn about the castle’s transformation from a neighbourhood to a necropolis.
Stand atop the Royal Tower
Moorish Castle’s Royal Tower offers an impressive vantage point of Sintra. The tower served as the leisure place for Ferdinand II and his artistic pursuits. He came to the Tower to seek artistic inspiration, with the Palace of Pena forming the backdrop.
Plan Your VisitMore about Moorish Castle
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Moorish Castle is a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site with its rich history and architectural significance. It was handed the honour in 1995. UNESCO classified the Sintra Cultural Landscape as a World Heritage Site, with the Moorish Castle representing a fundamental component.
The designation acknowledged its cultural importance and the need to preserve and protect this remarkable fortress for future generations to appreciate and admire.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moorish Castle in Sintra
What is Moorish Castle?
Moorish Castle is a medieval castle built in the 8th century by the Moors. It holds incredible history and is a blend of Islamic and Moorish architecture.
Why is Moorish Castle famous?
Moorish Castle is famous because of its historical significance, architectural splendour, and cultural heritage. It stands as a symbol of the Moorish influence in Portugal and showcases the skilled craftsmanship of the Moors during the mediaeval period.
What can I do at Moorish Castle?
You can walk along the Second Ring of Walls, explore the Islamic neighbourhood, and pray at the Church of São Pedro de Canaferrim.
How can I get tickets to Moorish Castle?
You can get tickets to Moorish Castle online for a hassle-free booking experience.
How much are Moorish Castle tickets?
You can get Moorish Castle tickets for €8.
Who designed Moorish Castle?
The Moors designed Moorish Castle.
When was Moorish Castle built?
Moorish Castle was built between the 8th-9th centuries.
Where is Moorish Castle located?
The Moorish Castle is 3.5 km from the historical centre of Sintra, standing above the ruins of the Castelo dos Mouros. You can reach it in 40 minutes by train from Lisbon.
What are the Moorish Castle timings?
Moorish Castle is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Tickets and admission to the castle are closed at 6 PM.
What is the best time to visit Moorish Castle?
Early mornings and evenings are the best to explore Moorish Castle.
What is there to see and do in the Moorish Castle?
The Second Ring of Walls, the Islamic neighbourhood, and the Church of São Pedro de Canaferrim are a few things to see in the Moorish Castle.
Is Moorish Castle wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Moorish Castle is wheelchair accessible.
Are there dining options available at Moorish Castle?
Dining options are available close to Moorish Castle in Sintra, Portugal.
Is there a dress code for visiting Moorish Castle?
No. There is no dress code for visiting Moorish Castle, but ensure you dress respectfully.