All of Southern Portugal is a popular tourist destination. The most favorite places there include, for example, the city of Lagos, which attracts lovers of beach holidays, luxury hotels and restaurants, as well as fans of club music and nightlife. However, the city is famous not only for the fiery musical rhythms and excellent local fish dishes but also for its rich history and culture. There are many ancient architectural monuments, like the majestic Castle of Lagos or, as it is also called, the Governor's Castle.
The luxurious two-story Moorish-style castle was founded at the end of the 12th century, but the impregnable defensive walls date back to an earlier period. According to another belief, the castle was built in the middle of the 8th century and belonged to the Arab conquerors long before it became the official residence of the governors of the prosperous Algarve region. No matter how old the beautiful Portuguese castle is, it still surprises visitors with its beauty and grandeur. And mystery stories about ghosts wandering through the castle mazes at night attract even more tourists.
Strong stone walls, about 10 meters high and 2 meters thick, are crowned with battlements and loopholes along their perimeter. After all, the castle was not only the residence of the local nobility but also a military facility, that protected the civilians. Throughout its history, the castle has gone through many wars and cataclysms. Fortunately, the ancient still have an almost pristine appearance.
In 1924, the Castle of Lagos was included in the list of national monuments of Portugal. In 1950, the last restoration work was carried out, after which the Governor's Castle was opened to the public. Today, it is considered the hallmark of Lagos.