Why do travelers choose Faro for their weekends and holidays? The first reason is the endless beaches that sit at the junction of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Also, the picturesque capital of the Algarve region offers multiple natural landscapes hidden in the Ria Formosa and the Alvor Nature Reserve. Not to mention the dozens of parks spread within the city.
The local cultural scene is worth mentioning too. You will be happy to stroll through iconic museums, art centers, and outstanding architectural monuments. Most of them are concentrated in the Old Town.
If you want to dedicate the closest vacation to the historical origins of Portugal’s south coast, head to Faro. The city invites you to immerse yourself in the rich past and feel the true cultural inspiration. You can rent a car at Faro Airport to make getting around the area easier. Rental24h.com offers a wide range of deals – from cheap economy cars to sleek premium models. Renting a car in Portugal allows you to make the most of your trip!
So, are you ready for a cultural boost in the heart of the Algarve? Then start the engine and set off to one of the following history-filled spots!
Arco da Vila
Enter the Old Town through the neoclassical Arco da Vila gate, commissioned by Bishop Francisco Gomez, who oversaw the reconstruction of the city after the 1755 earthquake. From the top of the tower, you can admire beautiful views, as well as the work of a pair of storks that have built their huge nests here.
The so-called Arabic gates of the structure continue with a belfry. Above the entrance, you will see a sculpture of Thomas Aquinas, the patron saint of the city. To continue your historical exploration, walk further along the streets lined with patterned paving stones. This is the same Old Town full of traditional white houses with shabby walls, and partially surviving fragments of the Romanesque period!
Se Cathedral
One more element of the cultural heritage of Faro’s Old Town is the iconic Cathedral, also called Se Cathedral. Its rich past allows us to consider that it stands in a prayerful place. Indeed, this place was first occupied by the Roman Forum, and then the mosque stood there.
The cathedral itself was built in the middle of the 13th century and simply heals the historical spirit. The oldest Gothic building wasn’t preserved due to a strong earthquake in 1755, but the cathedral was restored. Now, it presents a whimsical combination of Gothic and Baroque architectural styles.
For even more cultural engagement, head inside. Its interior decoration is light and cheerful, while the transitions between its three naves look incredibly harmonious. The cathedral is decorated with stained-glass windows and characteristic baroque carvings. Also, vaulted tiled domes crown the cathedral and complete the amazing ensemble.
Igreja do Carmo church
The history of Portugal goes hand in hand with its spiritual values, and the beautiful churches that fill its cities are a great confirmation. One of them is Igreja do Carmo, which appeared in the 18th century as a masterpiece of wooden architecture. Later, it was restored, and the interior was transformed beyond recognition. Now, a beautiful altar, carving, gilded decorative elements, and an organ complete the rich decoration.
When visiting the church, don’t miss its most famous part, the gloomy 19th-century annex, the Bones Chapel, or Capela dos Ossos, lined with the skulls and bones of the monks. It consists of three naves, 20 by 11 meters in size, with small windows overlooking the city streets.
The main feature of this mystical room is the almost complete absence of light. It was built back in the 16th century, and its author, a Franciscan monk, wanted in this way to remind everyone living about the frailty of life. Moreover, he left a warning above the entrance: “Nós ossos que aqui estamos, pelos vossos esperamos”. Translated into English, it means something like “We, the bones, wait for your own bones”. Therefore, impressionable people should think twice before coming to the chapel. Also, don’t bring children there!
Episcopal Palace
As one of the best examples of historic architecture in Faro, the Episcopal Palace, or Paco Episcopal de Faro, stands out for its characteristic pyramid-like roofs. Roofs of this form are typical only for Portugal, so you won’t confuse this amazingly beautiful structure with anything.
It was built for the archbishops and was their official residence. It’s now one of the most representative buildings in the city and the best place to explore during your trip.
Paco Episcopal de Faro serves as the residence of the head of the local diocese. The building was completed at the end of the 16th century next to the Cathedral. Unfortunately, it was damaged by the earthquake.
Visit the Episcopal Palace to marvel at the grandiose construction, with interior walls and stairs tiled with azulejos. Also, the chapel boasts oriental chinoiserie shelving, which is filled with manuscripts and folios on theology.
Igreja de Sao Francisco
Numerous churches are the pride of the Old Town, and if you are a fan of ancient architecture, don’t miss Igreja de São Francisco. First, grab your camera and take some bright shots of the building against the blue Portuguese sky. However, the main attraction is inside.
The laconic facade of the church hides the magnificent baroque interior. Azulejo panels and paintings illustrate the story of the coronation of the Virgin Mary and scenes from the life of Saint Francis. At the same time, decorative elements made of wood are covered with gold, thus giving the room a special solemnity.
So, Faro’s Old Town has prepared for you a vast selection of places for cultural inspiration. Of course, we haven’t listed all the local highlights – Igreja da Misericordia, Ermida de Santo Antonio do Alto, and Convento dos Capuchos are also worth seeing. Therefore, both history buffs and ordinary travelers will find something to do in the heart of the Algarve region!