SINTRA, PORTUGAL

The earliest documents describe Sintra as a built-up town in the 11th century by the Arab geographer Al-Bacr (who was later supported by the poets Luís de Camões and Lord Byron). The Moors built their castle atop a nearby promontory around the 8th-9th century.

Moorish castle at top of hill overlooking the city.

The Atlantic Ocean in the distance.