The fort was constructed around 1674/5 by order of Nuno da Cunha de Ataide, during the reign of Afondo VI. It was originally know as Forte de Sao Roque on account the fact Meia Praia was originally known as Praia de Sao Roque.
The fort formed part of the Algarves coastal defence system but was badly damaged in the earthquake of 1755.
It underwent certain repairs/restoration following the earthquake and again formed part of the coastal defence during the Portuguese Civil War. When the Civil War ended in 1834, the fort lost its military function.
The Fort is sandwiched between Meia Praia train station and the beach and has broadwalks/footpaths going right past it do it's very easy to get to.
I had an enjoyable walk to and from the Fort along the Broadwalks from Lagos Marina. The Fort itself was a nice chilled out explore and was, for me at least, quite interesting; it all made for an enjoyable morning by myself whilst my wife was getting her hair done.
The fort formed part of the Algarves coastal defence system but was badly damaged in the earthquake of 1755.
It underwent certain repairs/restoration following the earthquake and again formed part of the coastal defence during the Portuguese Civil War. When the Civil War ended in 1834, the fort lost its military function.
The Fort is sandwiched between Meia Praia train station and the beach and has broadwalks/footpaths going right past it do it's very easy to get to.
I had an enjoyable walk to and from the Fort along the Broadwalks from Lagos Marina. The Fort itself was a nice chilled out explore and was, for me at least, quite interesting; it all made for an enjoyable morning by myself whilst my wife was getting her hair done.
