Moorish Heritage

Five centuries of Moorish rule still shape the Algarve: place names starting with 'Al-', Silves castle, white domed roofs, azulejos and the cuisine.

Insider tip

Words like Alcaria or Almancil reveal the legacy; Silves is the best place to feel it.

#history#moorish#heritage#architecture

In Pera, international artists turn thousands of tonnes of sand into giant sculptures. Lit up at night, it is a family favourite.

Each August, Silves turns into a medieval market with jousting, music, crafts and costumes around the castle.

Portugal's oldest and largest carnival, with colourful floats, samba and satire through the streets of Loulé, usually in February.

More articles