Cape Roca (Cabo da Roca)
Cape Roca, at 38º47′ N, 9º 30’W, is an important landmark for those navigating along the coast, as it is the westernmost point of continental Europe. This fact is confirmed by a special certificate, which is issued as a keepsake when visiting the cape.
At an altitude of 150 meters above sea level, panoramic views of the Serra da Sintra mountains and the coastline are worth a visit.
Historical documents say that in the 17th century there was a fort on the cape, which was of great strategic importance. The fort guarded the approaches to Lisbon and was an important element of the defensive line of the coast, especially during the Pyrenean Wars. To this day, only the ruins of the fort have survived, as well as the lighthouse, which continues to fulfill its important function for maritime navigation.
Cape Roca is part of the Natural Park of Sintra-Cascais (Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais), which is of interest to lovers of hiking along the coast.
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