Cascais: Citadela Art District
Cascais Citadel is a set of fortresses built between the XV and XVII centuries to defend the coast, the access to Tagus river and also to prevent any attacks against Lisbon. The Citadela Art District is found inside these walls. Sadly, with Covid 19 happening in 2020, the hotel and spa are closed as are the cafés and some of the public areas. Still, I found it fascinating to walk through.
Here is the backstory of the Citadel itself: A few centuries ago, Cascais bay was constantly threatened and even invaded by English pirates. To fight back, King John II of Portugal decided to build a tower. Throughout time, different buildings and reinforcements were added. However, it was during the XIX century – without further sights of pirates on the sea – King Louis decided to re-purpose these buildings for himself. The king, who was a true lover of the sea, ordered his subjects to adapt the Citadel into a Royal Palace. The royal family usually spent the months of September and October in Cascais, a fact that changed this town’s daily routine completely. The remains of their presence are still visible in the architectural elements and beauty of the village.
AND now, the old and noble Citadel has been turned into a contemporary Art District. I can imagine it thriving as the space is created for open studios, galleries, cafés, hotel, library…so much. Here is some of the art I captured walking through.
