Discover centuries of history at Solar Do Castelo, set within an 18th-century mansion built on medieval foundations. One of the many buildings that make up the medieval village within the walls of Castelo de São Jorge, Solar Do Castelo is the only one that has been transformed into a hotel. The medieval remains, along with several artifacts uncovered during renovations, such as a cistern, are proudly on display in the hotel’s museum. The 18th-century mansion combines elements of the rationalist Pombal style of building with more elaborate design elements such as the traditional Azulejo tile and the bright yellow façade.

Admire the masterful renovations undertaken by Portuguese studio Atelier Graça Viterbo. The project developed unique spaces that mix sleek, contemporary design with elements clearly nodding to the medieval origins of the place. Rough linens, heavy curtains, and wooden floors and ceilings set the tone. Much of the furniture is bespoke, designed for the hotel in a medieval style tailored to the 21st century. The cobbled inner courtyard is inset with a fountain and an inviting fire pit. Beautiful blue-and-white Portuguese tiles, potted plants, and colorful cushions decorate the hotel’s inner courtyard, a peaceful corner where guests can lounge, joined by the beautiful peacocks that live at the castle.

Explore the grounds of Castelo de São Jorge. Located on the highest of Lisbon’s seven hills, Castelo de São Jorge is the city’s most visited tourist site with the best views of Lisbon and the Tagus River. Its oldest parts date from the 6th century and it was fortified by the Romans, Visigoths, and eventually the Moors. It served as a Moorish royal residence until Portugal’s first king Afonso Henriques captured it in 1147 with the help of northern European crusaders on their way to the Holy Land.