Discover the charming village of Sesimbra, famous for its stunning beaches. We visited the Fortaleza de Santiago, located on the seafront, with incredible panoramic views and a rich history from the 17th century. We visit Sesimbra Castle, an imposing medieval fortification with spectacular views of the ocean and the town. Inside the castle, we explored Santa Maria Church, with its historic architecture and serene setting. We continue to Cabo Espichel, where the lighthouse and cliffs provide an unforgettable experience. We visited the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Cabo, a pilgrimage site with a fascinating history and views of the Atlantic. We continue through Serra da Arrábida, a natural park of stunning beauty with green mountains, incredible views and Portinho da Arrábida, a picturesque bay with crystal clear waters, ideal for relaxing and enjoying nature. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture and natural beauty, providing a rich and memorable experience.
located next to the sand in the center of the bay of Sesimbra, the Fortaleza de Santiago was built in the 17th century, by order of D. João IV, and is part of the line of defense of the banks of the Douro, Tagus and Sado rivers, having been one of the most important defense points on the Arrábida coast. Inside, there are the military divisions of that time in good condition, such as the governor's residence and the garrison's quarters, the magazine and cisterns, the chapel and the dungeons. This space, which in recent times has been the stage for cultural events, is in the recovery phase in order to house the future sea museum and other cultural centers.
In one of the most beautiful areas around Lisbon, you will find Sesimbra Castle. Overlooking the town's incredible bay, its foundation dates back to a time before Portuguese nationality, but the walls you find when visiting this Castle date back to 1200. It was ordered to be rebuilt by D. Sancho I, in Romanesque style, taking advantage of the fortification previous Muslim – the castle is known in the region as “Castelo dos Mouros”. This castle offers a unique view of the region's amazing geography, with particular emphasis on the Tróia peninsula, the Tagus and Sado estuaries and the impressive Cabo Espichel. In excellent condition and with original elements – including the Church of Nossa Senhora do Castelo, which was built in 1160 – this imposing witness to the history of Portugal is worth visiting.
The Church of Nossa Senhora da Consolação is a temple founded in 1165, much altered in relation to the original. The portal remains from the Mannerist period, with the interior covered by a set of tile panels from the first half of the 18th century. The primitive temple is a landmark of the first Christian reconquest carried out by D. Afonso Henriques. It has a regular longitudinal plan, consisting of a temple with a rectangular bell tower and annexes. The facade has a "floor style". The interior includes a nave, chancel and sacristy, with the walls covered in blue and white tiles. The chancel is separated from the nave by a triumphal arch, giving access to the sacristy.
You will make your own way to the meeting points