Lisbon: A Visit to The Castelo de São Jorge

 A Journey Through Time: Reflecting on Our Visit to Castelo de São Jorge

On May 26th, we embarked on an enriching journey to the historic Castelo de São Jorge in Lisbon. This imposing fortress, perched high above the city, is believed to have been constructed during the period of Moorish control over Lisbon. As we explored its ancient walls and breathtaking viewpoints, we delved deep into the historical influences that have shaped Portugal, particularly those of the Moors. This visit was a profound experience, offering a comprehensive lesson on the multifaceted history of Portugal.

Unveiling a Complex Past

Prior to this visit, my knowledge of Portugal’s history was fairly rudimentary. I was aware of the significant influence of the Roman Empire on the region, but my understanding was limited. The Castelo de São Jorge served as a gateway to a richer, more intricate history, encapsulating the legacies of various rulers, including the Moors and Visigoths.

The castle’s history is rooted in the Islamic conquest that began in 711 AD when Tariq ibn Ziyad arrived from North Africa. At that time, the Visigoths, led by King Rodrigo, controlled the region. However, political instability weakened the Visigothic rule. King Rodrigo’s controversial rise to power, marked by betrayal and civil war, left his forces fragmented. This internal discord facilitated the Moorish conquest, as many Visigothic soldiers refused to fight or even sided with the Moors.

The Moorish Conquest and Influence

By 716 AD, the Moors had effectively taken control of most of Visigothic Iberia. Their strategy of offering cities the option to surrender peacefully, thereby avoiding destruction in exchange for a tribute, further expedited their dominance. This approach allowed inhabitants to retain their homes, properties, and faith, albeit under the condition of paying taxes to the Moorish rulers.

The impact of the Moors on Lisbon was profound and multifaceted. They introduced a distinct social hierarchy and urban structure that left a lasting imprint on the region. We were also able to see this influence in other regions that we visited such as the Alfama neighborhood in Lisbon. 

Architectural Reflections of Moorish Ideology

One striking aspect of the Moorish influence is the layout of their cities and castles. Al-Andalus, the Muslim-ruled area of the Iberian Peninsula, was divided into districts called kuwars, further subdivided into town units, villages, and peasant communities. Castles and watchtowers were strategically placed for defense, and the inner areas of cities housed key officials and administrative buildings.

A particularly revealing aspect of Moorish ideology was their perception of social hierarchy. There existed a clear segregation in their living arrangements, as observed in the rooms of Moorish elites. During our tour of the Castelo de São Jorge, we saw rooms divided to separate men and women, a physical manifestation of their societal views.

The Social Hierarchy of the Moors

Beyond gender segregation, the Moorish social hierarchy extended to religious distinctions. Within Moorish cities, only Muslims were permitted to live inside the city walls. Christians and Jews were relegated to the areas outside the walls, reflecting a rigid social stratification based on religion.

As we walked through the castle grounds and observed the remnants of these historical structures, it was clear how deeply ingrained these hierarchies were in Moorish society. The Castelo de São Jorge, with its layers of history from different rulers, vividly illustrates the complex and often turbulent past of the Iberian Peninsula.

A Deeper Appreciation

This visit to Castelo de São Jorge significantly enriched my understanding of Portuguese history. It highlighted the intricate tapestry of cultural and political influences that have shaped the nation. From the Roman Empire to the Moors, each era has left its mark, contributing to the rich historical narrative of Portugal.

In reflecting on this experience, I gained a deeper appreciation for the complexities of history and the enduring legacies of past civilizations. The Castelo de São Jorge stands as a testament to these influences, offering a window into the past and a greater understanding of the present.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Kakos for their generosity. Their support has alleviated the financial burden of my studies, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the enriching experience of exploring Lisbon, Portugal. I have been able to focus on my learning and the overall experience without financial stress. I am deeply appreciative of the opportunities this scholarship has provided and the experience and friendships I have made here will stay with me throughout my lifetime. 

I would also like to extend my thanks to Professor Skotnicki for facilitating this experience. His input and background on the history of Lisbon made this experience exponentially more enjoyable and enriching. 

Lastly, thank you Manhattan College Study Abroad Office for providing me with this once in a lifetime opportunity to develop my character and foster new friendships along the way.