The Forte de São Filipe is a 16th-century fortress that stands above Setúbal, commanding views over both the city and the Sado River estuary. Built between 1582 and 1594 during the reign of Philip I of Portugal (Philip II of Spain), the fort dates from the period of the Iberian Union when Portugal was under Spanish rule.

The fort rises 110 metres above sea level and serves as one of the region's most striking landmarks. Its elevated location was carefully chosen to place the entire entrance to the Sado River within reach of its cannons, while simultaneously maintaining surveillance over the urban area beneath. Today, this national monument continues to dominate Setúbal's skyline, serving as a powerful reminder of 16th-century military architecture.

The fortress's distinctive six-pointed star layout demonstrates sophisticated military engineering, with its sinuous design expertly adapted to the challenging hillside terrain through deep foundations. Massive buttresses and imposing ramparts form its primary defensive elements, complemented by austere gates and strategic guard stations positioned for maximum defensive capability.

The complexes heart lies the Capela de Santa Catarina, a beautiful 16th-century chapel adorned with traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles depicting the life of Saint Philip. Its main chapel space includes an elegant, gilded woodwork altar, enhanced by delicate panels with Marian themes crafted in 1736 by Master Policarpo de Oliveira Bernardes

An ingenious cistern system throughout the complex allowed for self-sufficiency, while the strategic positioning of cannons and surveillance points enabled comprehensive monitoring of both the Sado estuary and the city below. The fortress's main entrance retains elements of its original defensive mechanisms, including portions of its drawbridge system.

The beautiful tiles of the Capela de Santa Catarina

The solid defences of the fort

Throughout its history, the fortress played important roles in several conflicts, including the Portuguese Restoration War (1640-1668) when Portugal regained independence from Spain.

The fortress served a dual defensive purpose: it protected the entrance to the Sado River from maritime threats while simultaneously maintaining control over the city below. During the late 16th century, it defended against pirates from North Africa and France, as well as British and Dutch forces who were at war with Spain. The Spanish occupiers, though supported by Portuguese elites, built the fortress partly to guard against potential uprising from the hostile local population.

During the Portuguese Restoration War, the Forte de São Filipe played a significant role as a strategic point of contention. In 1640, when Portugal began its rebellion against Spanish rule, the fortress was initially held by Spanish forces, as it was one of the key defensive positions they had established during their control of Portugal.

In December 1640, shortly after João IV was proclaimed King of Portugal, Portuguese forces laid siege to the fortress. The Spanish garrison, commanded by D. Francisco de Almeida, initially resisted. However, facing pressure from both the local population and the Portuguese military, and with limited prospects of relief from Spain, the fortress eventually surrendered to Portuguese forces.

After its capture, the fortress was strengthened and maintained as part of Portugal's coastal defense system. This was particularly important as Spain continued attempts to reclaim Portugal throughout the 27-year war. The fortress's position overlooking the Sado River estuary made it crucial for protecting maritime trade routes and preventing potential Spanish naval incursions.

The wonderful view over Setubal from the castle

The main entrance to the castle

The fortress bears an intriguing dual dedication to São Filipe (Saint Philip). This choice of name carried particular significance during its construction, as it honoured both the Catholic saint and the ruling monarch, Filipe I of Portugal (Felipe II of Spain).

This careful selection of name reflected the complex political reality of the time, when Portugal was under the Spanish crown during the Iberian Union. Filipe I, whilst King of Portugal, was simultaneously ruling Spain as Felipe II, and the fortress stood as both a religious and royal symbol of his authority over both kingdoms.

The Forte de São Filipe rises 2 km west of central Setúbal, positioned magnificently on the edge of the Serra da Arrábida hills. The castle is entirely free to visit, making it an excellent addition to any Setúbal itinerary. Most visitors spend approximately one hour exploring the battlements and grounds, though many stay longer to savour the views and enjoy refreshments.

The Cafeteria Forte de São Filipe has earned a solid reputation among both locals and visitors. Unlike many tourist locations where prices often soar and quality dips, this establishment maintains reasonable prices and serves good quality Portuguese dishes and snacks. The café's terrace offers some of the most captivating views over the Sado estuary, Tróia peninsula, and the city below.

The cafe has one of the best views of the city

From central Setúbal, it is a very steep uphill walk of approximately 30 minutes to the castle, and this a very tiring walk in the summer months.

A taxi is a much better option and will costs between £5-7. Taxis are readily available from central Setúbal. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt offer slightly cheaper alternatives, typically costing £4-5.

Our most popular guides to the Setubal region