Portuguese castles are distinct from many other castles in
Europe. Even the earliest castles were built out of stone, while in other European territories
the wood was the primary building material.
Historically Portugal was a Roman territory, and then it was occupied for
four centuries by the Arabs. Many of the standing castles in Portugal have Arab influences.
Portugal’s castles range from early medieval buildings to
romantic castles. Probably the best known romantic building in Portugal is the Pena National
Palace near Sintra.
Near Sintra you can find the Queluz National Palace too, a wonderful Rococo palace. When it
comes to Moorish architecture in Portugal, probably Castle of São Jorge is the most relevant
example.
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