Faro Things to Do

The Arco da Vila is a monumental arch which was designed by the Italian architect Francisco Xavier Fabri.

The neo-classicism structure was inaugurated in 1812 on the site of the medieval archway which was destroyed during the 1755 earthquake.

A statue of Thomas Aquinas who is the saint of Faro stands in a niche of the arch.

Directions:
The Arco da Vila is the northern arch in the old town walls and ramparts. It can be fround just at the southern end of the Manuel Bivar Park.

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The history of Faro's ancient city walls date back to the late Roman period when they were raised by the Moorish prince Ben Bekr. The walls were severly damaged during an attack in the 16th century and later had to be rebuilt.

They are home to two barbican towers and various arches. The medieval city fortification also includes a castle from the 17th century.

Directions:
The city walls surround the oldest part of Faro, which is situated near the sea.

The Church of Sao Pedro (Igreja de Sao Pedro) was built in the 16th century on the site of a 15th century mariners chapel.

After the 1755 earthqauke it underwent extensive reconstructions. It is one of the many buildings in Faro where you can see storks nestling on the roof.

Directions:
The Church of Sao Pedro is located at the Largo de Sao Pedro (Bairro Ribeirinho district), just south of the Carmo Church.

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Faro's old town is dominated by the cathedral (Se Catedral). The original Gothic church was built in the 13th century, but severely damaged during the 1755 earthquake. Only the tower and and a doorway remained from that era.

From the tower you can enjoy panoramic views of Faro and the coastline.

Directions:
Faro Cathedral is located at the Largo da Se, just in the heart of Faro's old town.

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Situated on the highest point of the city, in the far east of the city, this church takes its name after its location. It was built in the fifteenth century, next to a medieval tower dating back to 1355. Inside is said to be a small museum exhibiting a collection of pictures, paintings and engravings alluding to St. Anthony.

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Located in the eastern side of the city walls, this gate (meaning Resting Arch) was built by the Moors in the 12th and 13th centuries in order to prevent Christian invaders. It features two towers with two side entrances. One of the arches was sealed in the 18th century by the Hermitage of Our Lady of Rest and a new entrance was opened in the 19th century.

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Located along the side of the Marina, this garden with its attractive flower beds, tall palms and jacaranda trees is a favourite haunt of the elder citizens of Faro who sit here and watch the world go by. It was called Queen’s Square when, in 1491, the village of faro was bestowed upon Queen Dona Leonor. At the end of the 15th century (1499) the area became the new civic and trade centre as a result of development carried out by King D. Manuel I.

Beside the Marina, this obelisk was erected in 1910 to commemorate the diplomat Ferreira d’Almeida. One of Faro’s famous sons, he had a long period of office as minister of naval affairs. During this time he founded a naval college and promoted the fishing industry.