Images of Portugal: Igreja Nossa Senhora do Castelo & Aljustrel Castle Ruins, Aljustrel
The ruins of the Moorish Castelo de Aljustrel in Aljustrel offer great views over the surrounding countryside. The Igreja Nossa Senhora do Castelo also stands here. It is an important place of pilgrimage and the center of an annual festival. The festival takes place in September and includes masses, a procession and fireworks.
Constructed in either the 11th century or the latter half of the 12th century, the site functioned as a defensive stronghold in the Al-Andalus region. It was captured by Christian forces in 1234 during the Reconquista. Although the hilltop had been occupied since prehistoric times, with evidence of Copper Age settlement and later Roman presence, the castle itself was developed during the Muslim period.
Built primarily of taipa (rammed earth) and stone, it was expanded between the 11th and 12th centuries to defend the region against the advancing Christian Reconquest. After its capture in 1234, the castle was granted to the Order of Santiago and remained in use until the 15th century. Today, the site is defined by the ruins of the castle and the Chapel of Our Lady of the Castle (Nossa Senhora do Castelo), constructed in the 14th century. In 1510 there was a restoration in a Manueline design.
Address: Rua Nossa Sra. do Castelo, Aljustrel, Portugal.
