When a vacation looms on the horizon, many are faced with the choice of where to spend it. Some prefer sightseeing tourism, others prefer a lazy beach holiday, water sports enthusiasts are ready to spend all their free time conquering the sea. And those who want to get everything at once should go to the lively suburb of Lisbon, the resort of Portugal - Cascais.
History of the city
The chronicle of the founding of the city goes back to the distant year 1364, when it gained independence. For a long time before this, Kishkais was considered the possession of Sintra. Previously, it was an ordinary fishing village that existed at the expense of agriculture and fishing, supplying seafood to the capital - Lisbon. And it got its name from the "mollusk shells" that covered the entire coast.
Due to its geographical position, the city has become a bastion protecting the country from the sea. However, built in the XV century. the citadel could not resist the Spanish Duke of Alba.
DuringNapoleonic invasions, the city was occupied by the French, and it was time for stagnation, which was interrupted by the Portuguese kings, who chose the suburb of Lisbon as their summer residence. Moderate climate, clean air, proximity to the sea played a role. Electricity, a railway, an oceanographic research laboratory, luxurious aristocratic buildings and even a casino appeared here.
Gradually, the harbor of sailors has turned into a modern resort city with a population of more than 33 thousand people, a rich historical heritage and a coast lit by lighthouses at night.
Palacio de Conde de Castro Guimarães
The described city is a popular resort and tourist center. The most interesting places in Cascais are located in its historical part. Here, the spectacular Guimarães Palace is open to the public, where the famous museum-library was organized in 1931.
Built in the 15th century, it served as the country residence of the Duke of Braganza. No wonder the kings of Portugal chose this place: it is located close to the capital, it is distinguished not only by its beautiful landscape, but also by its comfort and tranquility.
Gradually the palace was abandoned, and in 1910 it was sold to a connoisseur of art - Count Castro, and after his death passed into the possession of the state. It houses a grandiose collection of 25,000 books, some of which are over 5 centuries old.
A real rarity - an illustrated edition by Duarte Galveo (1455-1517). But in addition, porcelain items, collections of tableware are exhibited here.silver, antique hand-made furniture, an ancient organ, paintings and sculptures, archaeological finds of the 19th century from local underground caves. There is a small zoo in the garden with tame peacocks and a variety of birds.
Fort Our Lady of Luz
The Citadel (Cidadela de Cascais) of Cascais, built in 1488 by decree of King Juan II, was a small fortress, which was destroyed 100 years later after the attack of the Spaniards. The result of the military conflict was the unification of the two countries and the proclamation of the Spanish monarch Philip II the King of Portugal. Taking the reins of government into his own hands, he decided to restore the ruined fortress with some stylistic changes from the Renaissance.
Today, the citadel also remains the summer residence for the President of Portugal. The Artillery Museum is located in its open-air garden, which can be freely visited by any tourist.
Church of the Assumption of the Virgin
The unique look of the coast is created by snow-white houses with carved balconies and churches of the 16th century. Among the architectural sights of Portugal in Cascais, the painted Church of the Assumption of the Virgin (Igreia da Assuncao), located in the heart of the city, stands out.
It is known from history that it was erected in 1671 on the site of an old chapel and survived the devastating earthquake of 1755. The facade, divided at the corners of the building by pilasters that support the bell towers, looks rather modest. And from the open spaces and beauty of the interior decorationis breathtaking. Here you can see carved altars decorated with gilding, colorful panels depicting the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Peter, scenes from the Last Judgment and the Ascension of Jesus. Of particular note is Pedro Alexandrino's rare work The Last Supper, made in the 18th century. And in the center of the painted ceiling there is a picture of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
Maritime Museum
The sights of Cascais also include the Maritime Museum, whose expositions will tell about the history of the city, local fishing traditions, and various expeditions of seafarers. Everything related to the sea, from small shellfish to the wreckage of sunken ships, can be seen here. A rich collection of representatives of the underwater fauna is curious.
It is believed that the foundation of the museum was facilitated by an impressive collection that belonged to the Portuguese king Carlos I, who was seriously interested in oceanology, which had just appeared at that time. A significant part of the exhibits are from the personal royal stocks.
A visit to the museum will be a pleasant pastime for tourists of all ages, and everyone will certainly find something interesting and memorable for themselves.
Santa Marta Lighthouse
In the city center, not far from the main beach, there is a 20-meter landmark of Cascais in Portugal - a blue and white lighthouse (Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum). Inside - a small museum dedicated to the 500-year history of lighthouses in Portugal, their importance in the life of the maritime state. Free admission is a nice bonus. Sothe observation deck here offers a wonderful view, so "live" colorful photos are guaranteed.
As before, today the lighthouse is used for its intended purpose, to support navigation. It is equipped with a powerful red light source and a fog horn, in case of poor visibility in the fog.
Cape Roca
Arriving on the Atlantic coast, you just need to take the chance and see the most extreme point of the continent - the famous Cape Roca. The natural attraction of Portugal is located in Cascais, in the picturesque state-protected Sintra-Cascais Park.
On a desert cliff, at a height of 140 m above the ocean, there is an observation deck that will open up the endless horizon, where the azure sky merges with the boundless waters of the ocean. Looking enchanted into the distance, you understand how small a person is in front of the raging power of the water element.
There is a lighthouse on the cliff, a stele with the inscription "Cabo Da Roca", a cafe and a small souvenir shop where you can get a personalized certificate, as evidence of being at the "end of the world". Most of the tourists here during the summer season, because the harsh winter weather scares away most of the guests. Only strong winds, raging oceans and amazing views remain the same all year round.
Devil's mouth
Cascais has an abundance of outlandish natural places. So, not far from the city on a rocky coast there is a miracle created by nature, in calmness resembling a stone well. A cave with creepy outlinesBoca do Inferno is surrounded by ancient legends, mysticism and mysteries. It also has the names "Mouth of Hell", "Gates of Hell", "Devil's Mouth". Their origin can be understood only by being nearby and looking at the underwater rocks of the grotto. The raging waves, crashing against the rocks, throw foamy splashes high up and make terrifying rumbling sounds.
Devil's mouth is a place with a special energy, creating a striking contrast: the roaring noise and the indescribable beauty of the surrounding landscape. Such interesting places and sights of Cascais attract crowds of tourists from all over the world.
Beaches of Cascais
In addition to the historical sights of Portugal, the beaches of Cascais, stretching almost continuously along the entire coast, are also of great interest to tourists.
Guincho Beach (Guinho) - a huge wide beach with big waves, popular with extreme lovers. Mecca of surfing and yachting. It is here that you can see the power and splendor of the Atlantic in all its beauty.
Ribeira Beach (Ribeira) - a compact beach in the city center. It is suitable for lovers of a relaxing holiday. This is a small, quiet bay where you can soak up the sand in a relaxed atmosphere.
Central beaches tend to be crowded, but it's worth walking to the outskirts and natural scenic beauty is at your feet. Praia da Rainha is a small beautiful cove with cool water surrounded by rocks. Paradise place. Here you can retire from the noisy crowd andbe alone with yourself, enjoying the gorgeous picturesque view. Just above the beach there is an observation deck, which is definitely worth a look.
Most of the beaches here are fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay in Cascais. The beaches of Portugal will provide an unforgettable experience, and the hotels, restaurants, bars and discos located in the coastal zone will make your vacation varied and exciting.
Interesting facts
In the end, we suggest you remember some of the following facts:
- In 1755, the town was hit by an earthquake that destroyed almost everything. Only by a miracle one building survived - the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin.
- During the occupation by the French, the city was the headquarters of General Jean Junot, who, after the capture of Lisbon, received the ducal victorious title.
- In the period 1870-1908. a city in Portugal Cascais - a favorite vacation spot of the Portuguese kings.
- 1878 was marked by a significant leap in development, electricity was brought to the city.
- In 1896, the first oceanographic laboratory on the Atlantic coast was founded by King Carlos I in the citadel of the city.
The city is quite small, and you can get around on foot, without any transport, the sights of Cascais. There will be no problems with food either - numerous cafes and restaurants will gladly offer you to taste local cuisine or seafood delicacies.
Casino Estoril
Sights of Cascais (Portugal) includeand the colorful Estoril Casino (Casino Estoril), since these two towns are connected by a long promenade. Portuguese Las Vegas is famous all over the world for the scenes from the James Bond movie that were filmed here. Every day you can try your luck at the gaming table, listen to live music concerts, visit the restaurant and taste the best dishes of Portuguese cuisine. You should know that if you have a passport, any adult tourist can get into the casino, most importantly, do not forget about the dress code.
Reviews of tourists
All travelers who once visited Cascais agree that this is definitely the place to go back to. According to tourists, they are attracted here by interesting places, tourist attractions, the gentle sun and the raging Atlantic Ocean. They claim that the Portuguese Riviera resort gave them unforgettable emotions and impressions, a beautiful tan and pleasant memories.
