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Castle · Sintra, Lisboa
Castelo dos Mouros
Walls of a castle built by the Muslims between the 9th and 10th centuries, winding along the ridge of the hills with views over the village, the Pena and the sea.
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 Castelo dos Mouros
The Castelo dos Mouros was built between the 9th and 10th centuries, when the region was under Muslim rule, to keep watch over the lands of Sintra and the road to Lisbon. After Lisbon was conquered by D. Afonso Henriques in 1147, it passed into Christian hands.
Over time the castle lost importance and fell into ruin. In the 19th century King D. Fernando II ordered the restoration of the walls as part of the same romantic project that created the Palácio da Pena.
The visit is a walk along the walls, which rise and fall along the ridge between towers and stairways. From the highest points you can see Sintra's center, the Palácio Nacional, the Palácio da Pena and, on clear days, the ocean.
Inside the site are the old cistern and the remains of a Romanesque chapel.
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 one to one and a half hours.
Best time
On clear days, for the view. Early in the morning or late afternoon, with fewer people. In fog the view disappears.
How to get there
It's in the hills, near the Palácio da Pena. The same shuttle buses that go to the Pena stop at the entrance. From the center, there's a steep trail of about 2 km.
Tip
The wall steps are high and uneven; wear sneakers. Combine it with the Pena, which is a few minutes away.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Castelo dos Mouros
Who built Castelo dos Mouros?
The Muslims, between the 9th and 10th centuries. It passed to the Christians after 1147.
Is the climb on the walls difficult?
There are many high, uneven steps. Wear sturdy footwear.
Is Castelo dos Mouros near Pena?
Yes, the two are side by side on the hill and are served by the same circular bus.