Castle of Almourol

The Castle of Almourol is a historic Templar stronghold situated on a granite islet in the Tagus River, near Vila Nova da Barquinha. Originally built by the Moors in the early 1100s as a lookout point, the site was conquered in 1129 and rebuilt by the Knights Templar in 1171 under Gualdim Pais. It served as a key defensive outpost during the Reconquista to protect Portuguese territory from Moorish attacks. After the dissolution of the Templars, the castle was abandoned and later restored in the 19th century, giving it its current romantic appearance.

Access to the castle is exclusively by boat, with tours lasting less than an hour. Visitors can also engage in kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding around the islet. The site features the Almourol Templar Interpretation Center (CITA), which provides historical context on the Templar legacy. Admission fees range from €4 to €6.

Planning a visit requires attention to seasonal schedules. From March to October, the castle is open from 9:30 to 13:00 and 14:30 to 18:30. During February and November to January, hours are reduced to 10:00–13:00 and 14:30–17:30. The site is closed on Mondays from October 1 to February 28. Located approximately an hour’s drive from Lisbon, the castle offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscape. This combination of accessible history, scenic boat travel, and manageable visiting times makes Almourol Castle a compelling destination for travelers exploring the region.