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Fortress · Cascais, Lisboa
Cidadela de Cascais
A group of fortifications from the 16th and 17th centuries on the edge of the bay, which was the royal family's summer residence and today houses a pousada, art galleries and studios.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cidadela de Cascais
The Cidadela de Cascais brings together fortifications built to protect the entrance to the Tejo. The Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Luz dates from the 16th century, and the larger Cidadela was built in the 17th century.
At the end of the 19th century, King D. Luís I transformed part of the Cidadela into the royal family's summer residence. It was there that, in 1878, one of the first electric light connections in Portugal was made.
Today the Cidadela houses a pousada, galleries, artists' studios and restaurants. The Palácio da Cidadela is the official summer residence of the President of the Republic and is open for visits on certain days.
The walls and the inner courtyard can be walked around, with views of the marina and the bay.
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
From 45 minutes to an hour.
Best time
During the day, to see the galleries open. The courtyard is pleasant in the late afternoon.
How to get there
It is on Avenida D. Carlos I, between the bay and the marina, about a 10-minute walk from the station.
Tip
Go into the courtyard and see the galleries, even without a program. Then head to the Casa das Histórias Paula Rego, a few minutes away.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cidadela de Cascais
What is the Cidadela de Cascais?
A set of fortifications from the 16th and 17th centuries that served as the royal family's summer residence and today houses a pousada, galleries and studios.
Can you visit the Cidadela?
Yes, the courtyard, the walls and the galleries can be explored on foot.
Where is the Cidadela located?
Between the bay and the marina, about a 10-minute walk from the station.