Algarve Silves Information

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Silves is a compact town built on a series of terraces between the River Arade and the Silves Castle. First settled by Phoenician traders their riverside colony grew to become the Roman city of Sibilis, and then, from the 8th century, the Moorish city of Xelb. The Christians finally gained control in 1242. Much of this magnificent city was badly damaged by the 1755 earthquake. But reminders of its powerful past can be seen in the sandstone walls of the impressive Castle, which provides fantastic views from its battlements over the surrounding countryside.

The castle, where excavations have turned up relics from the Iron Age, the main Cathedral or Sé and the Archaeological Museum are all worth exploring. Worth exploring too are the narrow, winding streets whose white-washed houses are the perfect background for the colourful bougainvillea, for the glimpses between houses of the River Arade, and the rolling hills of orange and lemon groves.

Down by the riverfront there are several restaurants to choose from, you can enjoy a stroll and admire the Roman bridge. Another place of great interest is the Fabrica do Ingles (literally, the Englishman’s factory). Once a cork factory, now a leisure complex with gallery space, restaurants, street entertainment in the open courtyard and fabulous water show with lights, music and a laser show against the walls of the Castle. The complex also features a cork museum - winner of the Best Industrial Museum in Europe - that celebrates one of Portugal´s most important exports.

Handy Tips : One of the most relaxing and interesting (but not the fastest) ways to get to Silves is by boat – there are daily boat trips from nearby Portimão along the River Arade.


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19/03/2010
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22/03/2010
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