Uncover the Secrets of Castelo de São Jorge: A Hilltop Gem in Lisbon

Welcome to São Jorge Castle, one of the most prominent landmarks in Lisbon and a must-see for history lovers and photographers alike. Perched atop the highest hill in the Alfama district, this medieval castle offers sweeping views over the city and the Tagus River while taking you on a journey through Portugal’s ancient past.
 

As your virtual tour guide, let me take you through the fascinating world of Castelo de São Jorge — a place that is much more than just ancient walls.

📍 Where Is São Jorge Castle?

São Jorge Castle is located in Lisbon’s historic Alfama neighborhood, one of the oldest areas of the city.

🏛️ Address: Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisbon, Portugal

🚌 Accessible via tram 28, bus 737, or by walking up from Baixa

⏰ Open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (last entry at 8:30 PM)

🎟️ Entry Fee: ~€10 for adults, with discounts for students, seniors, and families

🏞️ Why Visit São Jorge Castle?

São Jorge Castle is not just a castle—it’s a living monument that has witnessed over two millennia of Lisbon's history. The site has served as a defensive structure for Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, and Portuguese kings. Today, it’s a place of stone towers, gardens, and archaeological ruins, plus breathtaking panoramic views over Lisbon.

🏰 History of São Jorge Castle

🏛️ Ancient Origins

The hilltop where São Jorge Castle now stands has been fortified since the 8th century BC. Early settlers included the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Carthaginians.

🕌 Moorish Castle

From the 8th century to the 12th century, Lisbon was under Moorish control, and the castle served as a military stronghold. Much of the castle’s defensive layout and walls reflect Islamic military architecture.

⚔️ Reconquest and Royal Residence

In 1147, the castle was seized by Afonso Henriques, Portugal’s first king, during the Christian Reconquest of Lisbon. The structure was later renamed São Jorge (Saint George) in 1383 in honor of England’s patron saint.

👑 Decline and Restoration

By the 16th century, the castle lost its importance as a royal residence and became a military barracks. It was heavily damaged during the 1755 Lisbon earthquake and restored in the 20th century.

🌟 Highlights & Things to See

1. The Castle Walls and Towers

Climb the towers and walk along the ancient ramparts for sweeping views of Lisbon’s red rooftops, the Tagus River, and 25 de Abril Bridge.

🔭 Best view: Tower of Ulysses with the Camera Obscura, giving a 360° live view of the city

🧗 Some parts of the wall are steep – wear comfortable shoes

2. The Courtyard and Gardens

Escape the bustle of the city in the shaded courtyards surrounded by olive trees, peacocks, and native plants.

🦚 Peacocks roam freely, a favorite among visitors

🌿 Peaceful spots for sitting and enjoying the view

3. The Archaeological Site

Explore ruins dating back to the Iron Age, including remnants of Moorish dwellings and medieval Christian homes.

🏺 Informational signs in English and Portuguese

🪨 Great for history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts

4. Permanent Exhibition

Located in the Casa Ogival, the small museum displays artifacts unearthed at the site, including pottery, weapons, and tools that span the castle’s long history.

🕰️ Learn about the castle’s use through Roman, Moorish, and Christian periods

📷 Photography allowed (no flash)

5. Camera Obscura

This optical device inside the Tower of Ulysses offers a live, moving panoramic image of Lisbon projected onto a concave surface.

🎟️ Included in the ticket price, but requires a guide

🕐 Available on a schedule – ask upon entry for times

📸 Best Viewpoints at São Jorge Castle

Main Terrace – For classic postcard views of Baixa, the Tagus River, and the Lisbon Cathedral

Tower Lookouts – Climb the watchtowers for elevated views and great photos

Courtyard Arches – Frame your shots through historic stone arches for a cinematic effect

🧭 How to Get to São Jorge Castle

🚶 On Foot: A scenic, though steep, walk from Baixa-Chiado or Rossio

🚋 Tram 28: Get off at Miradouro Santa Luzia and walk 5–10 minutes uphill

🚖 Taxi or tuk-tuk: Easy and convenient if you prefer to avoid the climb

🅿️ Parking is limited near the castle, so public transport is recommended

🕰️ Best Time to Visit

🕗 Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds

🌤️ Visit on clear days for the best views

🌙 The golden hour and sunset offer especially dramatic lighting for photos

🧒 Family-Friendly Features

🎒 Easy-to-navigate paths and courtyards

🦚 Children love the peacocks

📖 Informative displays are available in English

🚽 Clean restrooms and a small café on-site

🍽️ Nearby Cafés and Restaurants

After your visit, enjoy a meal or coffee in the nearby Alfama district:

🥪 Chapitô à Mesa – Amazing views and Portuguese cuisine

🍷 Clube de Fado – Dinner and live fado music in a romantic setting

☕ Pois Café – Cozy atmosphere and excellent brunch near the Cathedral

🍽️ A Casa do Bacalhau – Famous for its codfish dishes

🛍️ Souvenirs and Shopping

🧵 On-site gift shop with locally-made crafts, books, and postcards

🧣 Look for ceramic tiles, cork accessories, and castle-themed souvenirs

📸 Buy a photo book with vintage and modern images of the castle

📝 Travel Tips

🥾 Wear comfortable shoes – the site has cobblestones and uneven paths

🧴 Bring sunscreen and water, especially in summer

🧭 Combine your visit with nearby attractions like:

Lisbon Cathedral (Sé)

Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Alfama walking tour

📵 Wi-Fi is not always reliable inside the walls – download maps beforehand

🗓️ Events & Activities

São Jorge Castle often hosts cultural events throughout the year:

🎶 Live music and medieval reenactments during summer months

🌙 Nighttime guided tours with special lighting

🎭 Occasional open-air theater performances and film screenings

❤️ Final Thoughts: Why Visit São Jorge Castle?

São Jorge Castle is more than just a historic structure – it’s the cultural soul of Lisbon. It invites you to walk through time, imagine battles and royal banquets, and gaze over one of the most beautiful cityscapes in Europe. Whether you're here for the history, the views, or the atmosphere, São Jorge Castle will leave you enchanted.