Almoravid Amazigh castle in Portugal sintra moorish castle
The Moorish Castle in Sintra, Portugal, is a historic castle dating back to the 8th century. The castle was originally built by the Moroccan Amazighs during their occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, and played a strategic role in defending the region against invading forces.
The castle was captured by Christian forces during the Reconquista in the 12th century, then renovated and expanded by Portuguese King Sancho I. The castle was used as a military stronghold and royal palace for many years.
Over time, the castle was neglected after its fall. The castle was not restored and turned into a tourist attraction until the 19th century. The castle was extensively renovated by King Ferdinand II of Portugal,
Who was a fan of Amazigh history and architecture.
During the renovations, many of the castle's original features were restored, including the walls, towers and gates. The castle's location on a rocky outcrop offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and it has become a popular destination for tourists visiting Sintra.
Today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Moorish Castle is one of Portugal's most iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore the castle walls and towers and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The castle's rich history and unique architecture make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Sintra.
Moors Castle in Sintra
The Moorish Castle in Sintra is a tourist attraction and an entrance fee applies to visit it. As of my cut off in 2021, the Moorish Castle ticket price is €10.00 for adults, €8.50 for seniors (over 65) and €8.50 for youth (between 6 and 18). However, please note that prices may vary depending on the season and other factors, so it is always best to check the official website or ticket office for the latest information.
Who are the Moors or Moorish?
The Moors were medieval Muslims of North African Amazigh origins. The Moors ruled the Iberian Peninsula, which includes modern-day Spain and Portugal, for centuries. The term "Moors" was originally used to describe the Amazigh peoples, particularly the Almoravids, who ruled the region in North Africa and Andalusia. who conquered Spain in the 8th century, and later came to include the Muslim population of the Iberian Peninsula.
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