Castelo dos Mouros

Dating back to the 9th century, the castle has a fascinating history. Originally built by the Moors during their occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, the Castelo dos Mouros (Castle of the Moors, The Moorish Castle) served as a strategic stronghold to defend the region. Over the centuries, it witnessed numerous battles and changes in ownership until it fell into ruins. In the 19th century, it was lovingly restored, and today it stands as a remarkable testament to the past.

As you make your way up the winding paths to the castle, you’ll be surrounded by an enchanting forest of cork oaks and pines. The journey itself is an experience, with glimpses of the castle’s stone walls and towers appearing through the foliage, creating a sense of mystery and anticipation.

Once inside, you’ll be greeted by well-preserved ruins and an extensive network of walls and towers that once formed the castle’s defenses. The stone structures, now covered in moss and ivy, exude an ancient charm and offer a glimpse into the past. Exploring the castle grounds, you’ll discover hidden nooks and crannies, allowing you to imagine what life was like for those who once called this fortress home.

One of the highlights of visiting the Castelo dos Mouros is the breathtaking views it offers. From the castle’s towers, you can gaze out over Sintra and its surroundings, including the picturesque Pena Palace in the distance. On a clear day, the vistas stretch all the way to the Atlantic Ocean, providing a stunning backdrop for your visit.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk along the castle walls, which follow the contours of the hill and provide unparalleled views of the landscape. Be prepared for some steep and narrow sections, but the effort is well worth it for the stunning panoramas that await you.

Visit Notes

Unless you have mobility issues or are extremely afraid of heights, this is a must-visit attraction in Sintra. I love a good, crumbling castle and the Castelo dos Mouros really delivered. When you’re up on the walls of the castle, you start to understand why they chose this location as you can see for miles around. From this vantage point, you can see many of the other attractions in Sintra.

Keep in mind that the footing is uneven and there are many steps to climb. If that weren’t enough, my traveling companion was terrified by some of the drop-offs and lack of handrails.