Inside Castelo São Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal

The castle's period of neglect ended in the 1940s, when an extensive renovation was undertaken. Most of the incongruous structures added to the castle compound in the preceding centuries were demolished. The castle then became a big tourist attraction, especially for the wonderful views of Lisbon that it offers.

The castle area is square-shaped and was originally completely encircled by a wall, forming a citadel. It consists of the castle proper (the castelejo), some buildings (including the ruins of the Royal Palace), gardens and a large square with terraces to observe Lisbon. The main entrance to the citadel is done through a 19th century gate with the coat-of-arms of Portugal, the name of Queen Maria II and the date, 1846. This gate gives access to the main square D'Armas), decorated with old cannons and a bronze statue of the conqueror of the castle, King Afonso Henriques. This statue is a copy of the 19th century original by Romantic sculptor Soares dos Reis, located near Castle.

 
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