Faro

Faro is the capital of the Algarve region in southern Portugal, sitting between the Ria Formosa lagoon and gentle hills inland. The town connects a small historic core with modern neighborhoods, harbor facilities, and beaches on barrier islands offshore.

Phoenicians and Romans used the natural harbor as a trading post, and Moorish rule left urban traces until the reconquest in the 13th century. A severe earthquake in 1755 destroyed much of the town, prompting rebuilding with new churches and squares.

The name comes from an old Arabic lighthouse that once stood on the coast, recalling centuries of Moorish presence. Visitors pass daily through the Arco da Vila gateway with its stork nest on top, entering narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses.

The old town is easy to explore on foot, while boats to Ria Formosa and its islands depart from the harbor basin. The airport lies a few kilometers outside, and buses run regularly into the center and to surrounding villages.

Inside the Capela dos Ossos at Nossa Senhora do Carmo church, bones and skulls from around 1200 monks form artistic patterns on the walls. The bone chapel was created in the 19th century as a reminder of mortality.

Location: Faro

Inception: 1266

Capital city: Faro (city)

Elevation above the sea: 10 m

Shares border with: Loulé, Olhão, São Brás de Alportel

Address: Faro, Portugal

Phone: +351289870870

Email: geral@cm-faro.pt

Website: https://cm-faro.pt

GPS coordinates: 37.01629,-7.93518

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:02