Castelo de Palmela Named Finalist for Portugal’s 7 Wonders Competition

The historic Castelo de Palmela has been selected as the leading finalist in the castle category for the “7 Maravilhas de Portugal” competition. The victory, announced live from the Padrão dos Descobrimentos in Lisbon on TVI, secures the castle a place in the upcoming final broadcast, which will be staged at the Doca dos Pescadores in Setúbal.

Built on a strategic hill overlooking the Tejo and Sado estuaries, the fortress has played a key role throughout Portuguese history—from pre‑Roman settlements and Muslim rule to the Reconquista and the Order of Santiago. Its new recognition highlights the site’s cultural and military heritage and is expected to boost tourism to the Setúbal peninsula.