About Silves Castle

Allow yourself to be teleported into the past while visiting numerous historic sites and national monuments in the country of Portugal. Prepare yourself to experience the richness of its landscape, the structure, the architecture, or even the bone-chilling legends associated with its past. How many castles can boast to be one of the most exquisite and best-preserved examples of Moorish architecture in the country? One such castle is the Castelo de Silves or the Castle of Silves. Strategically located in the picturesque town of Silves in Algarve, the castle has numerous dark legends associated with it. This is an extremely famous tourist destination. Historians believe that the castle was built by the Moors on the sites of fortifications done by the Romans or Visigoths. From the 8th to the 13th centuries, the Moors held the Algarve region (called Al-Gharb at that time). The then capital city of Silves (called Xelb) was a crucial region for culture and trade. It was located near the river of Arade, which has long been silted now. To gain control over the then important town, there were numerous battles fought between the Moors and the Christians. Finally, the Moors were overthrown in the 13th century. However, with their departure, the river got silted and that brought an end to the trading access to the sea. This resulted in the town losing its long-held importance.

In today’s time, the castle is a popular tourist attraction and holds a special place in the hearts of the locals. On your visit to the Silves Castle, keep an eye out for the haunted Cisterna Grande. Also, from the castle, you won’t be able to resist the panoramic view of the city below.

Must See

  • Excellent view from the ramparts of the castle.
  • The ancient architecture of the Castelo de Silves.
  • Don't forget to enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the castle.
  • Observe the best example of Moorish architecture here.

How to reach

It is 252 km away from the city. You can board buses starting from Albufeira, Portimão, and Armação de Pera for Silves. The bus tickets range from 16€ - 35€.

Getting a taxi for the Silves town is easy. They will charge  €0.47  per minute and  €0.25 in the traffic jam.

Tips

  • There is a cafe inside the castle, you can sit and relax there. 
  • Avoid evening hours and weekends to keep it a relaxed tour.
  • Make sure you carry your camera to capture some great moments.
  • Walkway along the wall is not secured, so take care especially with small children.
  • Attend events if possible.
  • It is wheelchair accessible.
  • Public parking is available.

Visit Time

Sunday                                                        9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Monday                                                       9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Tuesday                                                      9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Wednesday                                                 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Thursday                                                     9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Friday                                                          9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Saturday                                                      9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

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Waiting Time

Might have to wait in line to purchase ticket

 

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Entrance Fee

Yes

Silves Castle and Archaeological Museum fee: €3.90.

Group Ticket Price for more than 20 persons: € 2.20.

Children below 12 years, students and tourists above 65 years:  € 1.40.

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Time you can spend Icon

Time you can spend

1 to 2 hours

 

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Weather

Overcast Clouds 12.73°C

 

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