Fort of São João do Arade

The Fort of São João do Arade sits at the Arade River mouth on a strategic hilltop with a trapezoidal floor plan. The structure dominates this location and displays the military architecture typical of its period.

The fort began as a watchtower in the 15th century under King John II and expanded into a larger fortress in the 17th century. Those additions served to protect against sea-based attacks.

The place transitioned from military use to private residence when a writer purchased and renovated it in the late 19th century, reshaping its cultural role. This transformation shows how former defense structures gain new meaning as personal homes.

The building remains under private ownership, so access is limited to viewing the exterior from outside. You can reach the site by public bus from the nearby city.

Its position on softer rock helped it survive the 1755 earthquake that destroyed many other coastal structures in Portugal. This geological feature enabled its survival when other buildings collapsed.

Location: Ferragudo

Inception: 1520

GPS coordinates: 37.11960,-8.52256

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:50