A must-see tourist spot, the Saint Philip's Fort was once an important defensive bastion and control of the city. Although the start date of the works is not unanimous among historians, the order of construction of the fortress is pointed to the year 1582, when D.Filipe II visited Setúbal.

The Fort of São Filipe is the result of the orders of the Spanish monarch Filipe II on the fortification of the coastline that protects Setúbal and the mouth of the river Sado. Attributed for many years to Filipe Terzi, it is currently known that it was designed by Captain Fratino in 1583, being composed of an irregular polygonal plan, in a six-pointed star with six bulwarks, and in a steep slope over the sea, being protected by the side North by a second walled line. According to the works of Rafael Moreira, it is a scheme that we can witness in the castle of Santelmo, in Naples (MOREIRA, 1986, p.149).

"São Filipe" Fortress, more often referred to as fort or fortress, played a tactical role in reinforcing the defense line of the Portuguese coast harassed by pirates from northern Europe and Africa.

From the walls of the fort you can see one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the bay.

There is also a small Joanine chapel, with a rectangular floor plan. The interior walls and the vault are completely covered with rich tiles, part of which narrates the life of "São Filipe" (Saint Philip). The royal coat of arms can be admired in the vault, in an intense Baroque composition. In the chancel, very discreet, with an altar in gilded woodcarvings, there are small panels with a Marian theme, dating from 1736 and signed by the master Policarpo de Oliveira Bernardes. Visit and embark on the history of this amazing place!!

It's still a perfect spot for a drink and a chat, with one of the most beautiful bays in the world in the background.

opening hours

From Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 to 19:00
Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 00pm