Igreja do Carmo

Igreja do Carmo is an 18th-century Baroque church in Faro featuring whitewashed walls and two distinctive bell towers on its facade. The building contains a richly adorned interior with gilded woodwork and intricately carved altars that reflect Portuguese craftsmanship traditions.

The church was founded in 1719 and built throughout the 18th century using funds from Brazilian gold during King João V's reign. This construction reflects the religious expansion of the Carmelite order during a period of economic prosperity in Portugal.

The church takes its name from its connection to the Carmelite order, and the ornate interior showcases the craftsmanship of sculptors and woodcarvers from that era. This sanctuary embodies religious devotion through its carefully designed altars and gilded woodwork that visitors can admire today.

The church is open to visitors throughout the day and can be explored at your own pace with easy access to the main areas. Plan your visit for morning hours when natural light illuminates the interior most beautifully through the windows.

One section of the church was used as a burial place for religious members, where remains were arranged in elaborate patterns on the walls. This lesser-known feature offers insight into burial practices of religious communities during that historical period.