Silves

Silves is a city with a rich history and remarkable natural beauty. Its narrative dates to very ancient times, as evidenced by archaeological findings revealing traces of occupation since the Iron Age. The territory encompassing the municipality area comprises three main natural zones: the Mountain, the Hills, and the Coast.

The Arade river meanders through the region, providing opportunities for boat trips that unveil the surrounding landscape. Also noteworthy, is the Roman Bridge of Silves, an ancient crossing point over the Arade river, notable for its architecture and history.

One of the city's most emblematic landmarks is the Castle of Silves, with roots in the Moorish period, an imposing fortification offering panoramic views over the city and its surroundings. Regarding the rich history of the site, Silves Cathedral stands out, a medieval cathedral built in the 13th century, a remarkable example of Gothic architecture in Portugal, housing historical and artistic elements in its interior. Meanwhile, the Municipal Archaeology Museum presents a diverse collection of archaeological artifacts illustrating the region's rich history from prehistoric periods to the Middle Ages.

Annually, the city hosts the Medieval Fair, transforming the streets into a medieval setting with cultural activities, markets, and historical reenactments. Additionally, Silves hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and recreational activities.

Silves' culinary offerings encompass a variety of restaurants serving traditional Algarve dishes, and along the old streets, one can find numerous cultural attractions, shops, restaurants, and cafes. Silves Municipal Market is a place where residents and visitors can purchase fresh local produce, from fruits and vegetables to handicrafts.

In recent times, the parish has focused much of its economic activity on irrigated agriculture and citrus orchards, a legacy of the Muslims who ruled Silves until the 13th century, introducing new agricultural practices and species such as citrus fruits. The uniqueness and high quality of Silves Oranges led to the creation, by the Municipality of Silves, of the brand "Silves, Orange Capital" in April 2016, certifying the origin of the fruit grown in almost the entire municipality.

Wine production has also gained prominence in recent years. "Wines of Silves," a brand registered by the Municipality, enjoys prestigious recognition, demonstrated by numerous awards in international competitions.

In a parish so rich in heritage and culture, tourism plays an important role in the economy. With a vast mountain area and its urban centre, Silves has become increasingly popular among both tourists and those seeking to establish residence. In the city and its surroundings, apartments, houses, and villas prevail, while the serene rural area of Silves encompasses more secluded luxury villas, charming country houses, and elegant estates. The parish stands out for its tranquility, security, and exceptional scenic beauty.