Pousada

Pousada History

The Palmela Castle doesn’t reveal any important architectural reference, and there aren't any legends for folk tales. However it is mentioned by the most famous medieval Portuguese writer Luis de Camoes in his book Os Lusiadas, which describes how king D. Afonso Henriques (first king of Portugal) conquered the castle from the moors with only 16 warriors by his side.

The most important of the pioneers of the “Portuguese Africa”, Brito Capelo was born within its walls. Other significant notable such Nuno Alvares and king D. Joao II also lived in the castle. For this it’s said that Pamela deserves the respect and has the widest scenery any imagination could want. Hours pass by filling the eyes and the spirit with the unforgettable view.

After the extinction of the Orders, in 1834, the caste was let go and it was in ruins. However, it was classified as a national monument on June 16, 1919 and subsequently reconstructed and restored.

Palmela Pousada is thus located in the 500 year old convent within the walls of Palmela's castle. Partial restoration of the Castle started in 1940 and the Pousada was open and inaugurated in 1969 after full restoration of the convent. With all its austerity, the Pousada's interior is comfortable and inviting preserving its 17th century flair. The cloister is the entrance to the galleries and the social space of the Pousada.

The Santa Maria church located inside the castle walls is very old and it had been in ruins for many years. However in 1534 the church was rebuilt with the charity help of Dom Prior and faithful people. Although it was destroyed by the great 1755 earthquake, it still preserves its Renascence edification.

The Palmela village was founded in 310 BC. Palmela seems to be the short name of "palma", a Latin word that means palm tree leaf or victory. "Palma" expresses also a woman name and "palme" a male name. However, little is known about Palmela´s history before the conquer of Lisbon by king D. Afonso Henriques. At that time it was abandoned by the Arabs and fell into Christian's arms.

Built in a privileged location, the Palmela castle is a key point between the Sado and Tejo's basin and was one the elements of the defensive triangle of Lisbon. The castle was reconstructed by kings D. Afonso Henriques, D. Sancho I and D. Afonso II and amplified by D. Joao I in the 17th century.

There aren’t many military histories about the Palmela castle in the following centuries, neither during the restoration wars, nor even afterwards. Nevertheless, at the end of the 17th century the castle walls where restored.
Palmela castle features a high tower, bulwarks, the governor house and soldiers quarters, where they would stay in any war occasion.

Palmela castle is one of the best architectural fortresses, specially known for its location and the magnificent view that it has to offer.