The castle was erected in the 11th century by the Moors. Supposedly, there had been a fortification before, as several finds seem to prove. It is impressing to see that at this stage of time the site had been equipped with a bath house so much developed that it could be used until the 18th century.
About the middle of the 12th century Tavira was for a short period of time, under the dominion of the Moorish prince Umar, an independent province. On the 11th of June 1242 Tavira was reclaimed at the behest of King Sancho II by the knight order from Santiago.
The castle had been expanded and fortified until the 15th century, later it lost its strategic focus.
The earthquake of 1755 has destroyed large parts of the castle complex.
Today small segments of it can still be seen, and you can walk on the castle walls having a most impressive panorama over the city.
The castle garden and the castle walls can be visited from 9 h on in the morning. The entrance is free.