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Castle · Loulé, Faro
Loulé Castle
Remains of the castle of Islamic origin, rebuilt after the Portuguese conquest of 1249, with three towers and a section of wall that can be walked. In the former Alcaidaria is the Municipal Museum, with archaeology and a traditional Algarvian kitchen.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Loulé Castle
Loulé Castle dates from the Islamic period, when the settlement was a fortified town of Gharb al-Andalus, the Muslim west of the Iberian Peninsula. In 1249 Loulé was conquered by the troops of King Afonso III, with D. Paio Peres Correia, master of the Order of Santiago, and became part of the kingdom of Portugal; the first charter (foral) dates from 1266.
The walls were rebuilt and enlarged after the conquest, and much of them was incorporated into the town houses over the centuries. From the original ensemble three towers and a stretch of wall with a battlement walk remain; this walk can be explored and offers views over the roofs of the historic centre.
In the building of the former governor’s house (Alcaidaria), from the 14th century, next to the towers, is the Loulé Municipal Museum. The archaeology section brings together pieces found in the municipality, from various periods of the region’s history. The museum also displays a reconstruction of a traditional Algarve kitchen, with the copper, earthenware and wooden utensils used in local homes. Guided visits are available by prior booking.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour for the wall and the Municipal Museum.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer on the roofs. In hot months avoid the central hours of the day, because the walkway on the wall has little shade.
How to get there
In Loulé’s historic centre, a few minutes’ walk from the Municipal Market and the Mother Church. Access is on foot through the narrow streets of the centre.
Tip
Take the chance to stroll the streets around the castle, and finish at the Municipal Market, which is nearby.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Loulé Castle
When was Loulé Castle conquered?
In 1249, by the troops of King Afonso III, led by D. Paio Peres Correia, master of the Order of Santiago.
What can you see at Loulé Castle?
Three towers, a stretch of wall with a battlement walk and, in the former Alcaidaria, the Municipal Museum, with archaeology and a traditional Algarve kitchen.
Is Loulé Castle far from the market?
No. Both are in the historic centre, a few minutes’ walk from each other.