What to see in the surroundings Lissabona. Photo

Lisbon surroundings are not less interesting than the city itself.

The majority of Portuguese castles is not such a fabulous facades, as in other European castles.

But they have a special charm and a unique design. Most Portuguese castles made of beige stone with a brownish-orange tint, giving it a Sunny appearance. When you get tired of the noise of the capital, take a daytrip to one of the locks under Lisbon. You will get a lot of pleasant experiences and will discover particular Portugal.

The Castle Of Leiria
During a trip to Leiria, you will not lose sight of the main attraction of the city: the magnificent castle on the hill. The castle is not a fairy tale-like constructions in Germany, but protective capacity and should not be glamorous. The Leiria castle is a peculiar beauty, with its colored tile roof and arched Windows. In this medieval defensive complex is the Church of Nossa Senhora da Pena and the Royal Palace. After the construction is completed in 1135, the castle was destroyed by the looters after just five years. Leiria is located approximately 1.5 hours drive from Lisbon. The complex underwent extensive renovation in the 20th century.

Evora Monte
Impressive Portuguese castle Evora Monte look like they were created by layers. The construction of the castle began in the 14th century. Construction of rectangular shape has a round tower and is located on a hill providing unparalleled panoramic views of the village. The rope knots on the facade are a symbol of the Braganca family, like the sculptures outside the fortress. The inner part of the castle with its vaulted ceilings supported by huge columns. In this place was signed the famous agreement of 1834, which completed an internal civil war. The fastest way to get here from Lisbon by car on highway A2 and A6.

The Castle Of The Moors
The Moorish castle is located less than 30 km from Lisbon in Sintra. It got its name because it was built by the Moors in the eighth century. During the Reconquest the castle was captured by the Christians. The chapel buildings were badly damaged during the earthquake of 1754, with a further collapse in the coming decades. The castle was eventually abandoned, and a partial restoration began only in the mid-19th century. In the days of its glory the castle was protected by high stone walls, ramparts and huge crenellated towers. Today most of the complex is in ruins, but climbing up to the battlements you will be rewarded with magnificent views of Sintra.

Almourol
Researchers believe that the castle of Almourol is located on the site of ancient Roman ruins, as later their reconstruction. Still not clear who carried out subsequent upgrades. In any case, the castle is considered the Prime example of medieval military monuments of the Templars. The castle is located on a granite hill of a small island in the middle of the Tagus river – the longest river on the Iberian Peninsula. It was the largest protective fortress, separating the Moorish and Christian regions of Portugal. Significantly damaged during the earthquake of the 18th century the castle was restored in the romantic style of the time.

Belém Tower
Looking at the pictures of Portugal, You probably saw the Belem tower. This Lisbon landmark is used as a symbol of the country. The construction of the 16th century, with its exquisite Moorish watch towers hours is located on the Tagus river. Tower defended the harbour of Lisbon from raiders from the sea. When Portuguese sailors began to travel around the world in the 16th century, the tower was the last building, which they saw leaving their homes and met them on the return. Located in the district of belém to the West of the city centre tower is the most visited attraction in Portugal. Note to travelers: the entrance to the tower is free on Sundays until 14:00.

The Óbidos Castle
The village of óbidos has a long history and predates the Romans, though the castle was built only in the 12th century. The fortified complex is often called the “wedding gift”, because the king presented it to his bride in 1282. The medieval castle is located on a hill, and its walls surround the village, as was customary in the old days. If you want, you can walk cetene around Óbidos. Feature of the lock trapezoidal shape are its high towers and courtyards. Construction think bright masterpiece of medieval architecture due to its combination of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque and other styles. Located at a distance of one hour drive from Lisbon, óbidos Castle is ready to accommodate guests in a luxury hotel.

Castle Foam
On a clear day you can easily see the Pena national Palace straight out of Lisbon, although it is situated on a hill in Sintra. The Palace was built on the ruins of the monastery and has the fabulous design of all Portuguese castles. It is considered a striking example of the architecture of romanticism of the 19th century in Portugal. The Palace is located in the middle of the Park, planted more than 500 varieties of trees from around the world. The Pena national Palace is one of the most visited attractions in the country. Day trip from Lisbon can easily be combined with a visit to the nearby castle of the Moors.

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