Fort of Peniche

An early renaissance fort guarding the old port of Peniche with a long history, stretching all the way to the 1970s. The place opens only in the afternoon, so plan accordingly. The place overlooks cliffs and rocks and is very picturesque.

One of my favourite stops at this amazing architectural masterpiece which served as an imposing defense to the honour of Portugal, which was sadly tainted when, under the dictatorship of Salazar, the fort was turned into a state prison, housing around 2000 political prisoners over the ages, who suffered the most degrading injustices in this place, reminiscent of the soviet era at its worst.
Exciting escape stories, prisoners sketches & letters, prison records and cells were profoundly moving for me.
The museum is a must for a tiny entrance fee, where the history of Peniche, its trade, the fort and the battles fought, as well as its more recent history as a prison. Absolutely fascinating.
Our deepest thanks to Dona Ana Luisa, an employee for over 2 decades who was kind enough to open the chapel and told us some great stories.
Get there soon, the fort is due to be closed to the public for a prolonged period (years) for much needed restoration works.

The new museum of resistance and freedom should be part of everyone's trip to Peniche. High quality exhibitions and free admission. An important part of history, not to be missed! Open 10-6pm, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

I learned a lot about the history of Portugal. definitely worth the trip.

Great views and a small beach (cala) near the entrance! It is free to enter and see the sights inside, and they have public bathrooms.

It was closed but it’s still a beautiful place to see from outside

So beautiful, with such a great view

A good place to visit, ever used since the Kings, to a prison in the dictatorship. With beautiful surroundings.

Such a beautiful place with so much history ❤😍

Located on the south coast of Peniche, in the slopes between the fishing port to the east and the Furninha grotto to the west. There's not much to see but the views of the ocean are stunning, some of the history is very interesting and the colours are quite pretty. A good place to see the sunset.

Love this place. Full of Portuguese history

Incredible piece of Portuguese history, and even free admission! Stunning views across the harbour/ocean.
Staff were incredibly helpful and friendly.
Be sure to visit the former prison for political prisoners and also the chapel on site.

Peniche is the furthest place West in mainland Europe - fabulous ....

Such a nice place! ))

Interesting experience and view into life of prisoners. A lot of info and well put together. It is a shame that a part is still under renovation, but maybe next time will be finished 😊

Great historical value in the Portuguese history.
Unfortunately has been closed for much needed renovations bu opening very soon. Worth a visit

One of the historical highlights of my hometown... Could really benefit from some conservation effort... Some of the areas could be put to better use if renovated.

The Peniche Fortress was builted on the site of the former Castle of Atouguia da Baleia, of which only a few vestiges remain, initial construction took place in 1557 and 1558 but there have been numerous subsequent modifications. Its defensive walls surround an area of two hectares, divided into upper and lower parts. The fortress has served a number of functions including that of a political prison during the authoritarian Estado Novo regime.

Historical fort. It served has a prison for political prisoners during the dictatorship. It has free entrance. Great sea views.

Was cool. Didn't know it was all a huge prison. Bottom approach to the sea was very cool