Images of Portugal: Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Luz, Cascais
The Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Luz in Cascais west of Lisbon is part of the Cidadela de Cascais.
The Cidadela de Cascais is divided into three parts: the Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Luz, the tower of Santo António de Cascais and the former Royal Palace (Palácio da Cidadela).
The large Cidadela de Cascais was initially constructed in the 16th-17th centuries to defend the mouth of the River Tagus and the city of Lisbon. It was built over earlier 15th century fortifications.
From the 1870's part of the fortress had become the summer residence of the Portuguese monarchy. After the establishment of the Portuguese republic in 1910, Portugal's presidents have continued to enjoy its location and charm as a summer residence.
The construction of the Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Luz began in 1594 during the reign of Philip I of Portugal (Philip II of Spain).
Though severely damaged in the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake the buildings have been restored over time.
The original Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Luz reopened to the public in April 2016 after its restoration. The luxury Pousada de Cascais is also located within the walls of the citadel and boasts an indoor swimming pool.
Renovated in 2004, the Palácio da Cidadela has become an art space occupied by a number of museums, shops and restaurants. These include the Casa do Cartoon, which exhibits graphic humour from the press. The central courtyard is decorated with a number of sculptures and modern art pieces.
