Portugal: Cannon at the Fortaleza de Sagres

Using our hotel in Luz as a base, we explored the Algarve. Most tour guides had the Fortress at Sagres as a "must see" attraction. Sagres is the most south-westerly community in the Algarve. In Roman times this area was called the Promontorium Sacrum (hence the name, Sagres). One of two promotories in this region that jut out into the Atlantic (the other being Cape St Vincent), Sagres provides an excellent panoramic view of the ocean; clearly a military advantage.

Prince Henry the Navigator, son of King João I, built his famous school of navigation at Fortaleza de Sagres. The fort was originally built in the 15th century and rebuilt in 1793 after it was destroyed by Sir Francis Drake in 1587.

As a tourist site, Sagres is a bit disappointing. As we found throughout Portugal, the many historic sites are not utilized to maximize touristic potential. There was little in the way of guides or booklets to guide the visitor. No doubt an impressive site/sight, but little is done to educate the tourist. On the other hand, entrance prices were cheap and parking was free!

Cannon at the Sagres Fortress with Cape St Vincent
 in the distance  2014-05-15