Forte da Ponta da Bandeira
Lagos Fortress
Built in the 17th Century, at the end of the canal where river Bensafrim enters the sea, is Lagos´ sweet fortress. (Known as Fortaleza or Forte da Ponta da Bandeira or simply the Lagos Fortress).
In the 1600´s the coast was under regular attack of pirates and corsairs, in addition to the Spanish who bombarded the Algarve during the Portuguese Restoration War (1640–1668). This led to the construction of a string of forts along the coast. The rectangular shaped fort has a small drawbridge to enter from the land and thick carved stonework walls. It now hosts a museum dedicated to the Portuguese Discoveries & a view from the terrace not to miss.
According to the stone inscription over the main door, it was completed between 1679 and 1690. The Fort was used to guard Lagos by protecting the river mouth from attack.
Until the late 20th century, the fort was used as a service depot for military forces and housed services linked to maritime activities (supplies for lifeboats etc).
Within the courtyard sits a chapel dedicated to Santa Barbara, patroness of the artillerymen and miners, which is decorated with azulejo tiles.
There is also now a museum dedicated to the Portuguese Discoveries, with exhibitions, displays of maritime history, astrolabes and models of caravels.
Prices
Entrance to the Fortress, which includes the museum and chapel is 1.50€.
Times
Tuesday to Sunday 9:30am–12:30 and 2:00pm–5:00pm.
Closed Mondays.
Contact
Phone: +351 282 761 410
You find the Fortress beside the main town beach “Praia da Batata”.
Reviews
Forte da Ponta da Bandeira
Cais da Solaria, Lagos Portugal