Castelo de Sao Jorge (Saint George Castel)

During the first week that we were here, the University took us on a bus tour around the city of Lisbon. The first stop that we made was at a breathtakingly beautiful castle called Castelo de Sao Jorge. It is located in the district of Alfama, which is on top of a hill that overlooks the city of Lisbon as well as the famous Tejo River which Lisbon lies next to. The castle was originally build in 1147, and was used as a residence for the Portuguese kings. In the year 1755, a massive earthquake hit and destroyed most of Lisbon (this earthquake is a central part of the history of Portugal) and included in the destruction was the castle. It wasn't until 1938 when the medieval castle was renovated and rebuilt. This is one of those things that I have never seen or experienced anything like it before in my life. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the battlements, climbing up the castle walls, strolling through its gardens, and seeing the views of the city that it had to offer. What a great way to start my sight-seeing here in Portugal! Pictures include: streets we walked up to get to the castle, castle entrance, views from on top, statue of a knight, entrance to the inner part of the castle walking over the mote, and the garden.