Night bat tours return to Lisbon’s São Jorge Castle – Portugal Resident
Visitors to Lisbon’s São Jorge Castle can once again explore the historic monument after dark this summer on guided tours dedicated to the bats that inhabit its ancient walls.
The popular “Bats at the Castle” experience runs until the end of September, with the next tour taking place on Friday, July 17. Led by biologists from Portuguese environmental consultancy Biota, the two-hour walks begin at 8.30pm and combine history with wildlife observation.
Using ultrasonic bat detectors, participants will have the chance to observe and identify several species that have made the castle their home, including the lesser horseshoe bat, common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, grey long-eared bat, Kuhl’s pipistrelle and the European free-tailed bat.
Organisers say the tours aim not only to introduce visitors to the animals’ behaviour and habitats, but also to challenge long-standing myths surrounding bats and highlight their vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
“More than an observation experience, this activity encourages reflection on the essential role bats play in the balance of ecosystems, helping to dispel the misconceptions and mystery that still surround them,” the castle said.
The tours are open to anyone aged five and over.
Remaining dates this summer are July 17, 18, 24, 25 and 31; August 7, 14, 21 and 28; and September 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26.
Tickets cost €10 for adults and €5 for visitors under 18, and are available online through the BOL ticketing platform or at the castle ticket office.
Perched on Lisbon’s highest hill, São Jorge Castle is one of Portugal’s most visited monuments, offering panoramic views over the capital while also providing an important urban habitat for several protected bat species.
