Editor's choice Faro District

The Faro District preserves the Algarve's diverse history, from the 1st-century mosaics of the Milreu Roman Villa to the 17th-century coastal defenses of Forte de Santa Catarina. This collection features the Manueline Cruz de Portugal in Silves, the multi-layered archaeological site of Montinho das Laranjeiras, and the thermal springs of Caldas de Monchique. Architectural landmarks include the Baroque Casa das Figuras and the Antigo Mercado dos Escravos in Lagos, providing a comprehensive overview of the region's Roman, medieval, and maritime heritage.

Editor's Choice: Faro District — Map

A

Milreu Roman Villa

Archaeological site featuring well-preserved 1st-century mosaics of marine life, a luxury manor house, thermal baths, and a temple later used as a Christian basilica.

B

Forte de Santa Catarina

A 17th-century coastal fortification situated at the mouth of the Arade River, built to defend Portimão from pirates and privateers.

C

Igreja de São Francisco

A Gothic and Manueline style church in Silves, originally part of a Franciscan convent, featuring a simple facade and historical religious artwork.

D

Cruz de Portugal

A 15th-century Manueline limestone cross located in Silves. It is a National Monument featuring intricate carvings of the Crucifixion and the Pietà.

E

Villa Romana do Montinho das Laranjeiras

Archaeological site containing the remains of a Roman villa, a Visigothic cruciform church, and evidence of subsequent Islamic occupation near the Guadiana River.

F

Casa das Figuras

An 18th-century former granary in Faro, distinguished by its Baroque architecture and two statues of figures on the roof. It currently houses the municipal library.

G

Ermida de Santo António do Alto

A 15th-century hermitage and watchtower in Faro. It features a Renaissance portal and houses a museum dedicated to Saint Anthony.

H

Caldas de Monchique

A thermal spa village in the Monchique mountains. Its alkaline waters have been used for therapeutic purposes since the Roman occupation.

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

I

Estatua de Bernardo de Passos

A monument in São Brás de Alportel honoring the local 19th-century lyric poet Bernardo de Passos.

bruno ralec / CC-BY-SA

J

Antigo Mercado dos Escravos

A 15th-century building in Lagos that served as Europe's first slave market. It now functions as a museum documenting the history of slavery.

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