Fortaleza de Santa Catarina
The Fort of Santa Catarina (Fortaleza de Santa Catarina) in the beach resort of Praia da Rocha in Portimão on the Algarve dates from 1621.
Along with the Fort of São João do Arade on the opposite bank of the river in Ferragudo, it protected the entrance to the River Arade.
History
The fortress was built during the period (1581 to 1640) when Portugal was under the control of its larger neighbor, Spain.
It was built to protect incursion up the River Arade to Silves from pirates and the Moors.
The architect was Alexandre Massai who selected the site for its superb views over the surrounding river mouth and the presence of drinking water.
Though planning began in 1621, the fortress was not finished until 1633.
The 1755 Lisbon Earthquake caused considerable damage to the structure.
During the 20th century the fort was occupied by the Portuguese military before becoming a tourist attraction with a cafe/restaurant and miradouro/esplanade.
There are superb views out to sea, over the beach at Praia da Rocha and across the river to Ferragudo.
Architecture
The castle forms a trapezoid shape with its main entrance facing land. There are stairs down to the beach. The battlements are decorated with a couple of cannon and the original well can still be seen. There is little information on the fortress except for a tiled information board.
Access
Fortaleza de Santa Catarina
Av. Tomás Cabreira 4
8500-802 Portimão
Hours: Always open
Admission: free.
Nearby
The fort is a short walk from the marina to catch the boat over to Ferragudo.
Accommodation in Praia da Rocha is plentiful and consists of luxury historic hotels, some in converted mansions going back to the late 19th century, more modern budget hotels as well as apartments, villas and guest houses.
Some recommended places to stay include the Bela Vista, a former mansion renovated in a modern Portuguese style, the excellent four-star Tivoli Marina Portimão with modern facilities including two seawater pools, the Hotel Oriental, also four-star, has a pool and rooms with superb sea views. The five-star Hotel Algarve Casino has lovely gardens and two outdoor pools.
Slightly more budget options include the Hotel da Rocha, the Jupiter Algarve and the three-star Avenida Praia.