Algarve, Portugal

Algarve

Most of the Portuguese border runs along the sea, therefore fishing villages and towns can be found in many coastal areas of the country. One of the most advanced fishing areas of the country is south of Portugal - Algarve region. Since the end of XX century the Algarve has actively developed as a resort, which has led to a shift in major economic sectors with the traditional fishing and agriculture to the tourism industry. In the history of the Algarve have contributed to the Greeks, Phoenicians, Romans and Arabs, so there is no shortage of things to do.

As can be seen in the Algarve?
Let's start with the capital of the region - the city of Faro. There are many churches, monasteries and chapels, as well as the Cathedral and Bishop's Palace. The old town is surrounded by a partially preserved walls. There are museums - municipal, marine and ethnography.

In the city of Portimao Alvor worth seeing Castle and the Palace of Abreu, visit the ethnographic museum and a park-Vishkonde Bivar. Not far from Portimao is a large prehistoric cemetery "Alkalar."

The main attractions of the fishing town of Olhao - a large fish market (open on Saturdays) and the old cathedral church. In the vicinity of the town is a national natural park of Ria Formosa, a central element of which - the lagoon.

Natural Park of Ria Formosa - a channel, pink flamingos and storks. And also a lot of fun hiking and sea excursions for tourists and travelers. Traditional tidal mill and farm were specially restored to become part of the tourist routes.

In the small town of Lagos and the surrounding attractions are surprisingly abundant. This is not only familiar to Portuguese churches, chapels and monasteries, and the forts and the castle of the Virgin and Roman dam (Fonte Cobert), the building of the former slave market and the weapons shop.

Sights of the city of Silves - two of the castle (Silves, Alkantarilya) and the Cathedral. Administratively this city is one of the most popular beaches of Portugal - the beach Armacao de Pera, edged with beautiful rock formations.

In the pleasant city of Tavira gaze remarkable ancient bridge and the splendid views from the fortress. Catholic churches there is a lot - more than three decades.

In the city of Loule is an ancient castle and several churches. But the most interesting local market. In addition to the products of fishing and agriculture are sold many high-quality handicrafts - from wicker baskets and straw hats to leather straps and brass products.

In the city of Lagoa addition of Churches (MATRIZ de Lagoa and MATRIZ de Eshtombar) and monasteries (San Zozhe and Nossa Senhora do Carmo-) is a fortress castle, which stands to visit.

The modern town of Vilamoura was originally built as a resort. Its attractions - a few water parks and a zoo in the area, plus the largest in Portugal marina.

The main historical attraction of the resort town of Albufeira - the Moorish castle.

Summarizing the above, it is worth noting that, except for the capital of Faro, Portimao Algarve and in part has distinct urban and cultural centers. This provincial Portugal, a trip on which breaks or to visit several small towns pretty, or takes the form of a relaxing holiday on the selected beach resort. This region is famous for more pristine nature and the living testimony of history - churches, monasteries, castles, fortresses, than museums.