The Algarve is a small yet diverse region featuring magnificent mountains, ancient cities, and beautiful beaches. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, its climate attracts thousands of tourists. Many expats have actually moved here because of the superb weather. The abundance of picturesque sandy beaches, beautiful landscapes, and cultural attractions make the Algarve one of the most popular expat destinations in Europe.
If you have just moved to the Algarve, then you probably want to learn more about its history and culture. The Clock Tower in Albufeira, the Sculpture of Dom Sebastiao in Lagos, and Rua Dr. Francisco Gomes in Faro are famous among locals and tourists alike. The Algarve has a rich cultural heritage, featuring lots of museums, churches, monuments, and historic sites.
Silves Castle (Silves)
Silves Castle is a landmark of the region. This red sandstone fortress dates back to Moorish times. The castle has been classified as a national monument in 1910. Its central area has been redeveloped into gardens. Despite its age, this historic building remains substantially intact. Visitors can walk all around the rampart and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.
Convent de Sao Jose (Lagoa)
Convent de Sao Jose (the Convent of Saint Joseph) hosts exhibitions of sculpture, painting, pottery, and photography. It is the cultural center of the city of Lagoa. Built in the 18th century, the convent features an old chapel with woodcarving altars, a menhir dating from 5000 to 4000 BC, and an interesting attraction called the "wheel of the exposed" where the orphans were left in the Middle Ages.
Museu Cerro da Vila (Vilamoura)
This museum is a fine example of an ancient villa complex featuring superb black-and-white patterned mosaics, salt tanks, and sunken baths. Museu Cerro da Vila exhibits artifacts from the Roman civilization in Vilamoura, including ceramics from the 8th, 9th and 10th centuries. Its walls are decorated with colorful frescoes and geometric patterns with statues of gods.
Sé Cathedral (Faro)
Built on the site of a 13th century church, the Sé Cathedral boasts a unique mix of Renaissance and Baroque influences. This religious building has suffered damaged both in the form of attacks and natural disasters. Two of its chapels and the first floor tower are all that remain of the original church. Its interior is impressive and its statues represent some of the most valuable 7th and 18th century art collections in Portugal. The cathedral features a chapel covered in gold leafing, a large 18th century organ adorned with Chinese motifs, and the bishop's tombstone.
Moving to Portugal is a life changing decision. Whether you want to retire, start a new life, or spend some quiet time, you will find everything you need in this country. Art and culture lovers will certainly appreciate the numerous cultural sights in the Algarve. Make sure you visit this expat blog to learn more about Portugal and its rich cultural heritage!
Article Source: Larissa_Vinci
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