Throughout September, visitors will once again have the chance to explore Paderne Castle every Wednesday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, thanks to the return of the “Castelo de Portas Abertas” (Open Doors at the Castle) initiative. Guests can enjoy free, self-guided visits to one of the most emblematic landmarks of the region’s historical heritage. Highlighting the importance of the project, the Mayor of Albufeira, José Carlos Rolo, emphasized the need to “value local heritage and share the history of the municipality.”
A true symbol of regional identity, Paderne Castle stands as one of Albufeira’s most iconic monuments. Built during the Almohad period, this military fortress has been classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1971.
Perched around 100 meters above sea level, the castle once held a strategic position for the defense of the Caliphate. Constructed in the 12th century, it was definitively taken in 1240 by D. Paio Peres Correia. Later incorporated into the Christian kingdom’s defense system, it remained active until 1858. Until the early 16th century, parts of the local population lived within its walls before relocating further north.
Its current state of preservation reflects centuries of abandonment as well as the devastating effects of the 1755 earthquake. In recent years, however, the monument has undergone several restoration efforts, aiming to safeguard the surviving structures and bring new life to this historic site.
