Travel Guide to Faro, Portugal

The largest city in the Algarve province, this is a well-developed economic and cultural center. The production of common salt has played a huge role in the economic development of this place. Rich deposits of sault were discovered in Faro yet in the previous century. This fact has given rise to the appearance of numerous factories. The city remains a major industrial center even nowadays, but in recent years it has started attracting more tourists thanks to its unique nature and rich historical heritage.

Speaking of places of interest in Faro, we simply can’t fail to mention the amazing nature reserve named Ria Formosa. Here you can see the representatives of local flora and fauna; several large aquariums will demonstrate rich variety of underwater creatures to visitors. The park has areas devoted to birds and wild animals, while aquariums are full of different mussels and fish.

Among the architectural sights of the city we should definitely mention Estoi Palace and Ruins of Miller. The palace was built in the beginning of the 17th century. It is surrounded by a spacious park and is decorated with exquisite sculptures, columns and pools. In the halls of the palace you will see a collection of antique furniture, paintings and other interior items. Many years ago a beautiful castle stood on the place of Ruins of Miller. This house belonged to the Roman nobles. Nowadays only mosaics that had adorned the bottom of one of the pools survived.

Dormition of the Virgin Monastery built in 1543 is another important monument that cannot be neglected. St. Francis Church, Church of Peter and Roman-Gothic Cathedral are no less beautiful religious buildings. There are also several museums in the city. The local Museum of Natural History exhibits a collection of wonderful paintings, while the museum dedicated to Henry the Navigator is devoted to important geographical discoveries. Don’t forget to visit St. Antonio di Alto gallery that features an exhibition of photos, paintings and sculptures.