09/10/2024
🌊 The Citadel of Cascais, a formidable 16th-century fortress, played a vital role in defending the coastline and the mouth of the Tagus River, protecting Lisbon from invaders and pirates. In the 19th century, during the reign of King Luís I, it was transformed into a summer retreat for the Portuguese royal family, marking the beginning of Cascais as a cosmopolitan seaside destination.
In 1882, the first tide gauge in Portugal, and the oldest still operating in Europe, was built here. Later, in 1896, King Carlos I established the country’s first marine biology laboratory within the fortress. The royal family’s presence attracted aristocracy and cemented Cascais as a prestigious luxury getaway.
Today, this historic icon houses museums, art galleries, and a luxury hotel, continuing to embody the rich history and allure of this coastal town. 🌊👑
Discover the unique lifestyle of Cascais, Estoril, and Oeiras with , , and .