The capital of the Algarve region is none other than Faro. It is a busy city that attracts countless visitors every single year. Located next to the Ria Formosa Nature Park, a 60- kilometer expanse of dunes, lagoons and some of the most awe inspiring beaches in the region, one can choose from a wide assortment of resorts, villas and hotels to stay in. Perhaps the most popular resort in the city is that of Ilha de Faro which offers many amenities to the weary vacationer. For the golfer, Faro offers many great courses that will keep you busy for days. Not only are there course located right in the city, but there are many more found in the surrounding hills and countryside.
Faro Cathedral, Algarve, Portugal
The waters of Faro are calm and inviting which is why so many people make their way to the area every year. There is a non-stop array of water sports to participate in no matter what time of year you visit the region. However, if you come during the summer months, then you will also be able tom take a boat out to the quiet and secluded Barreta Island where you will be able to find that much needed rest and relaxation that you have been looking for.
While the area where Faro is has been inhabited for centuries, today most of the city reflects its cosmopolitan atmosphere. You will find a multitude of shops and restaurants throughout the city which offers you many delights and delicacies of the region. As you get closer to the city’s center though, you will start to recognize the old world charm which the area is known for; narrow cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed buildings from the days of old.
It is here in the old portion of the town that you will find the historic Vila-Adentro, and the Sé Catedral which was constructed back in the 13th century. While the cathedral may have been destroyed by the 1755 earthquake and as a result of many attacks in the 16th century, it has since been rebuilt a number of times over the centuries. Today it stands as a testament to the time and incorporates architecture from various times in European history. Then there is the Igreja da Ordem Terceira de São Francisco which was built in the 17th century, the Ermida de Santo António do Alto and even a 14th century watchtower.
You will also be able to stay busy for days simply by checking out the many great museums in Faro. The Museu Municipal de Faro can be found in the 16th century Convento de Nossa Senhora da Assunção. The Museu Marítimo Almirante Ramalho Ortigão was founded back in 1931, is a maritime museum which has been dedicated to the seafarers of Algarve.
But you cannot visit Faro without checking out the Roman Ruins of Milreu which date back to the 3rd century. The villa features many baths and a temple as well as some very colorful mosaic motifs that depict the long history of the region and its association with the seas.
