Fort of São João do Arade
Fort of São João do Arade, Military fortress in Ferragudo, Portugal.
The Fort of São João do Arade stands at the mouth of the Arade River, featuring a trapezoidal structure on a strategic hilltop position.
Originally constructed as a watchtower in the 15th century during King John II's reign, the fortress expanded in the 17th century to protect against maritime invasions.
The fort transformed from a military installation into a private residence when writer Coelho de Carvalho purchased and renovated it in the late 19th century.
While the fort remains under private ownership, visitors can view its exterior architecture by taking EVA buses from Portimão to Ferragudo's Praça Rainha Dona Leonor.
The fort's position on softer rock helped it withstand the devastating 1755 Lisbon earthquake, which destroyed many other coastal structures in Portugal.
Location: Ferragudo
Inception: 1520
GPS coordinates: 37.11960,-8.52256
Latest update: March 3, 2025 02:26
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