Towers

Overview

Perched majestically atop Lisbon's highest hill, the São Jorge Castle is an iconic landmark, and its impressive 'Towers' are a testament to centuries of history, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. As you step inside this ancient fortress, you are invited to explore the eleven remaining towers that have stood sentinel over Lisbon through various epochs. These towers are not merely architectural features; they are crucial components of the castle's rich narrative, inviting visitors to climb their steps and immerse themselves in the stories etched into their stone.

From these elevated vantage points, one can trace the city's sprawling landscape, from the historic Alfama district below to the distant horizon where the Tagus meets the Atlantic. The towers provide a unique perspective, bridging the past and the present, and serving as a focal point for understanding Lisbon's strategic importance throughout history.

History & Cultural Background

The history of São Jorge Castle's towers is deeply intertwined with the diverse civilizations that have occupied this strategic hilltop. The site itself boasts human occupation dating back to the 8th century BCE, with the first defensive walls appearing in 48 BCE during Roman times.

The current fortification layout, including many of its foundational towers, was largely established by the Moors in the mid-11th century, who recognized its prime defensive location. This period saw the castle, then known as 'Alcáçova,' serving as a military citadel and the residence of the Moorish governor.

In 1147, Dom Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal, triumphantly captured Lisbon from the Moors, an event that marked a significant turning point for the castle and its towers.

Subsequently, the castle became a royal palace, undergoing various modifications that blended Moorish, Gothic, and Manueline architectural styles. It remained a vital royal residence until the 16th century.

Although severely damaged by the devastating 1755 earthquake, extensive restoration efforts in the 20th century, particularly in the 1940s, helped preserve and reconstruct the castle's walls and towers, allowing us to witness their grandeur today.

What Makes It Special

The towers of São Jorge Castle are unique for several compelling reasons. There are eleven remaining towers, each contributing to the castle's formidable defense and architectural character.

Among these, the Torre de Menagem, or Tower of the Keep, traditionally the strongest and most important tower, stands out. Another notable tower is the Torre do Haver ou do Tombo, also known as the Tower of Riches or Tumbling Tower. This tower once housed the Portuguese national archives, the 'Torre do Tombo,' holding invaluable historical documents.

Today, this tower is more commonly referred to as the Torre de Ulisses (Tower of Ulysses) and is home to a fascinating Camera Obscura. This optical device provides a real-time, 360-degree projected view of Lisbon, a captivating experience that connects the ancient structure with modern observation.

Other significant towers include the Torre do Paço (Tower of the Palace), Torre da Cisterna (Tower of the Cistern), and the Torre de São Lourenço (Tower of St. Lawrence), the latter notable for its connection to a 'coracha' wall – a unique Moorish defensive structure providing protected access to a water source or gateway.

The Albarrana Towers, advanced turrets detached from the main wall and connected by a stone bridge, further showcase the sophisticated military engineering of the Moorish period, designed to enhance defensive capabilities and shooting angles.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The towers hold many whispers of the past. One captivating legend associated with the castle's capture by Christians in 1147 involves Martim Moniz. It's said that this brave knight sacrificed himself by throwing his body into an opening in the castle gate, preventing the Moors from closing it and allowing the Christian army to enter.

The castle was dedicated to Saint George, the patron saint of England, by King John I in the 14th century, celebrating the Anglo-Portuguese alliance and a shared veneration for the warrior-saint.

Beyond their historical weight, the castle grounds, including the areas around the towers, are often graced by the presence of peacocks. These vibrant birds add a touch of unexpected beauty and charm, their calls echoing through the ancient ramparts, creating a memorable detail for visitors.

Visitor Perspective

Exploring the towers of São Jorge Castle offers an immersive journey through time. As you ascend the series of steps along the ramparts, you are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Lisbon's terracotta rooftops, the shimmering Tagus River, and beyond.

The ability to walk the full circuit of the walls and peer through ancient arrow slits allows for a visceral connection to the castle's defensive past. Each tower provides a different perspective, inviting contemplation on the historical events that unfolded within these very walls.

The experience culminates in the Camera Obscura within the Torre de Ulisses, a magical moment where the city's vibrant life is projected in real-time onto a concave table, offering a unique and educational insight into Lisbon's geography and landmarks.

Beyond the towers, the archaeological site on the castle grounds further enriches the visit, revealing layers of Roman, Visigothic, and Moorish history, all contributing to the profound sense of place that the São Jorge Castle and its formidable towers embody.