Castelo de Palmela, Medieval castle in Palmela, Portugal
Castelo de Palmela is a fortified complex sitting on the eastern edge of the Serra de Arrabida hills at about 240 meters high, with views across the Tagus and Sado river deltas. The grounds hold a church, a museum, and a hotel that spreads across different sections of the medieval walls and buildings.
The fortress began between the eighth and ninth centuries under Muslim rule and then passed through several hands over time. Portugal took permanent control in the early 13th century and maintained it afterward.
The Igreja de Santiago church inside shows visitors how the Order of Santiago left its mark on this place and the surrounding region. Walking through the chapel, you can see how religious and military traditions were intertwined here for centuries.
The outer gates stand open daily with no admission fee, letting visitors explore the grounds freely at their own pace. The Igreja de Santiago church inside has limited opening hours and requires a paid ticket for entry.
A section of the fortification now operates as a hotel, using the former convent wing to house guests while keeping the medieval structure maintained. This dual use shows how historic places can survive through practical, contemporary adaptation.
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