Lisbon's Oldest Fortress: Saint George's Castle

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is home to a historic castle known as Saint George's Castle. This ancient fortress, built from massive stones, features walls constructed in the 14th century, 77 towers, and approximately 34 large gates. The entire perimeter stretches about 2.3 kilometers, making it a truly impressive sight. Climbing to the top of the fortress offers a panoramic view of Lisbon, with expansive vistas. Saint George's Castle has witnessed several centuries of Portuguese history. Beyond its defensive role, it has served as a royal palace, military barracks, and national archive. Today, it stands as a historical monument and museum. Interestingly, the castle grounds also house an aviary with peacocks and owls. Visitors need to purchase tickets to enter Saint George's Castle, with adult tickets priced at €8.5. Upon entering, one is greeted by a statue of Saint George in a niche and a statue of King Manuel I of Portugal in the square. Wandering through the towering walls, moats, battlements, and towers evokes the atmosphere of medieval Europe. From the castle walls, the view of Lisbon is a sea of beautiful red-tiled roofs, exuding elegance and a sense of historical charm. One can also see the banks of the Tagus River and the massive statue of Jesus, which is quite a sight to behold.