Forte da Meia Praia

Forte da Meia Praia is a military fortification with a square-shaped layout positioned on a small hill overlooking Meia Praia beach. Its defensive walls face the Atlantic waters, where maritime threats once approached.

Built between 1674 and 1675 under Governor Nuno da Cunha de Ataíde, it protected Lagos Bay from maritime raids during the reign of King Afonso VI. The 1755 earthquake and tsunami caused severe destruction, requiring extensive rebuilding afterward.

The structure displays typical Portuguese coastal fortification design from the Algarve region of its era. Walking through it, you see how people built defenses to protect their settlement from attacks at sea.

The site sits directly by the coast and is accessible for visitors interested in exploring the walls and enjoying views over the water. Clear weather days are best for walking around and taking in the views from the hilltop location.

After the 1755 disaster, the structure was rebuilt but not according to its original design. The reconstruction with altered plans remains visible today in the different building styles across the site.

Location: São Gonçalo de Lagos

Operator: Guarda Nacional Repúblicana (Antiga Guarda Fiscal)

GPS coordinates: 37.11746,-8.64734

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:28