| PORTIMÃO |
After Faro, Portimão is the most important commercial
centre in the Algarve and the main hub for the region's thriving
sardine-canning, leisure cruise and big game fishing industries.
Attracted by the natural harbour on the wide estuary of the
River Arade, the Romans settled here, promptly naming it Portus
Hannibalis. It was captured by the Portuguese in 1250 after
five centuries of Moorish rule.
Today, Portimão is a cosmopolitan port with high-quality
restaurants, modern shopping centres and a large, bustling market.
What to see. Dating back to the 14th century, the church
of Nossa Senhora da Conceição features impressive
17th- and 18th-century azulejo glazed tiles. It was rebuilt
after the earthquake of 1755. Nearby, the 17th-century Jesuit's
college boasts the largest church in the Algarve. Decorated
with gilt-covered wood carvings, the church houses the tomb
of the college's founder, Diogo Gonçalves.
Nearby. Praia da Rocha, 2 km south of Portimão,
was one of the first seaside resorts to emerge in the Algarve.
Backed by sandstone cliffs, its famous 2-km-long stretch of
golden, sandy beach is interrupted by rock formations which
the sea has sculpted into remarkable shapes, complete with tunnels
and arches.
The Carthaginian, Hannibal, is believed to have founded the
pleasant little village of Alvor on the shores of a lagoon 8
km to the west of Portimão. Its parish church is dedicated
to the Holy Saviour and dates from the 16th century. |
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| © 2007 Maisturismo |
