Algarve

Heritage sites in the Algarve

This collection traces the historical evolution of southern Portugal, spanning from prehistoric megalithic monuments to medieval defensive strongholds. It features Neolithic menhirs and dolmens like Anta da Masmorra alongside Iron Age settlements and strategic fortifications. Highlights include the Moorish-influenced castles of Mértola and Beja, the 17th-century coastal defense at Ilha do Pessegueiro, and the archaeological remains of Islamic fishing settlements at Carrapateira.

Derek Turner / CC-BY-SA

Ponta da Piedade

Ponta da Piedade is a headland with a group of rock formations along the coastline of the town of Lagos, in the Portuguese region of the…

[2] / CC BY 2.0

Castle of Mertola

The Castle of Mértola is a well-preserved medieval castle located in the civil parish and municipality of Mértola, in the Portuguese…

Alvesgaspar / CC BY-SA 3.0

Forte da Ilha do Pessegueiro

A 16th and 17th-century coastal fortification built to defend the shore against pirates, situated on the mainland opposite the island of Pessegueiro.

[2] / CC BY 2.0

Castle of Beja

The Castle of Beja is a medieval castle in the civil parish of Beja, municipality of Beja, Portuguese district of Beja.

Quitéria Settlement and Necropolis

Prehistoric archaeological site featuring megalithic structures and a necropolis, reflecting ancient human settlement.

Sitio Arqueológico do Porto de pesca da Carrapateira

Remains of a 15th-century Islamic seasonal fishing settlement located on the cliffs, providing evidence of historical maritime activities and resource exploitation.

Castelo de Mértola

A medieval fortress built on Roman and Moorish foundations, featuring a 13th-century keep that overlooks the Guadiana River and the surrounding town.

Menir de Mac Abraão

A prehistoric standing stone located in the Vidigueira region, serving as a significant example of Neolithic megalithic culture in the Alentejo interior.

Castro da Azougada

An Iron Age fortified settlement situated on a strategic elevation near the Guadiana River, with archaeological evidence of subsequent Roman occupation.

Castelo Velho de Cobres

Archaeological ruins of a fortified hilltop settlement dating back to the Chalcolithic and Bronze Age, later utilized during the Roman and Islamic periods.