Fort of São João Baptista on Berlenga Island: History and Visit

Few images represent the Berlenga Island as well as that of its fort, raised on a rocky islet and connected to the island by a narrow stone bridge. The São João Baptista Fort is the postcard of the Berlenga and one of the most photographed — and visited — spots for those who land on the island.

What is the São João Baptista Fort

Also known as the Berlenga Castle, the fort stands on a small islet at the entrance to the anchorage, joined to Berlenga Grande by a bridge and a stone causeway. Its dramatic location, surrounded by the sea, makes it one of the most impressive settings on the Portuguese coast.

The history of the fort

The fort was built in the 17th century to defend the coast and the island from the attacks of pirates and corsairs that plagued the Atlantic. Before it, the Berlenga had hosted a monastery, abandoned before the construction of the fortress. The most famous episode of its history took place in 1666, when a small Portuguese garrison heroically resisted the siege of a far superior fleet, in a feat that remained in the memory of the coast’s defence.

Visiting the fort today

After landing on the Berlenga, you reach the fort along a path and staircase that descend to the stone bridge. Entry to the São João Baptista Fort costs 1€. Inside, you can walk the courtyard and the walls, admire the views over the sea and the island, and capture the best photographs of your visit. Over the centuries, the fort even served as a simple shelter house for visitors.

Tips for the visit

• Wear comfortable footwear — access is via stairs and uneven paths.
• Bring water, a hat and sunscreen; there is little shade.
• Set aside time to photograph the bridge and the fort from various angles.
• Always respect the rules of the Nature Reserve and the ICNF.

Frequently asked questions

Can you go inside the fort? Yes. Entry costs 1€ and lets you visit the courtyard and the walls.

How do you get to the fort on the island? On foot, along a path with a staircase that links the pier to the stone bridge giving access to the fort’s islet, or by boat, after the cave visit.

Why was the fort built? In the 17th century, to defend the island and the Portuguese coast from the attacks of pirates and corsairs.

Discover the Berlenga fort in person

To visit the São João Baptista Fort you need to reach the island. BerlengaTur takes you from Peniche to the Berlenga with regular crossings and cave tours. See the packs and prices, find out how to get to the Berlenga and don’t forget to book your BerlengaPass.