Points of Interest in Albufeira
Albufeira: sun, beaches and a lot of entertainment. Here, life has the rhythm of a tourist metropolis and as the sun goes down, sun worshipers head to clubs, restaurants and bars. Sports are also another reason people choose to visit Albufeira. Tennis, golf, water sports and more capture the attention of athletes. This is the most intensive tourism area in Portugal.
The name 'Albufeira' comes from the Arabic 'Al-buhera', which means 'castle of the sea' as the settlement was used as a defensive fortress by the Arabs. This city has maintained the historic and cultural heritage that represents its spirit and the strength of a town that believes in the power of faith. As such, you can find physical vestiges of the past.
POINTS OF INTEREST:
- Sineira Tower
Built in 1869, it forms a part of Matriz Church with a carillon with eight bells.
- Clock Tower
Ex-libris of the city, with an iron crown that supports the bell.
- Matriz Church
Constructed in the 18th century as a substitute for the previous church that was destroyed in the earthquake of 1755. At the peak of the main entrance archway you will find the Aviz cross, which is the symbol of the religious/military order to which Albufeira pertained.
- Sant'Ana Gate
One of the entrances to the castle, which provided access to the chapel of the same name.
- Sant'Ana Church
This temple was constructed in the 18th century. Mor Chapel presents a wooden altarpiece that may have been the work of Francisco Xavier Guedelha and João Baptista.
- São Sebastião Church
Built in the middle of the 18th century. Outside, you will note a cupola and two Manueline and baroque doorways.
- Nossa Senhora da Orada Shrine This building is located next to Albufeira's marina and its construction dates back to the 16th century, although the second chapel was built during the second half of the 18th century. The procession that takes place on 13-15 August during the Senhora da Orada Festival starts from here.
- Paderne Castle and Wall
Only a small chunk remains but you will find here one of the towers of the castle wall.
- Paderne Medieval Bridge
- San Vicente de la Paz
This monument was built in memory of Brother Vicente de São António. It was bequeathed to the church after the death of his parents.
- Municipal Archaeology Museum
Situated in the old town, the Municipal Archaeology Museum is in the building that housed the local government up to the end of the 80s. With architectural elements typical of southern Portugal, this building is comprised of two floors. The museum has study, conservation, restoration and material storage areas, in addition to a small themed library. Pieces are intimately linked to the history of Albufeira, from its distant origins to the 17th century. They are divided into four main categories: Prehistory, Roman Period, Islamic Period and Modern Age.
- Museum of Sacred Art
- Historic Archive and Municipal Library
Unique examples of historic manuscripts on the region, dating back hundreds of years, are kept here.
- Historic centre of Albufeira
- Praça Engenheiro Duarte
- Praça 25 Abril
- Rua Almirante Viewpoint
- Peneco Elevator
- Albufeira Marina
- Algarve Shopping Centre
- Zoomarine (theme park ) This is the most popular theme park in Albufeira. In addition to being the home of different animal species, ranging from sharks to birds, it also hosts dolphin and seal shows. It's great for a family day out.
The name 'Albufeira' comes from the Arabic 'Al-buhera', which means 'castle of the sea' as the settlement was used as a defensive fortress by the Arabs. This city has maintained the historic and cultural heritage that represents its spirit and the strength of a town that believes in the power of faith. As such, you can find physical vestiges of the past.
POINTS OF INTEREST:
- Sineira Tower
Built in 1869, it forms a part of Matriz Church with a carillon with eight bells.
- Clock Tower
Ex-libris of the city, with an iron crown that supports the bell.
- Matriz Church
Constructed in the 18th century as a substitute for the previous church that was destroyed in the earthquake of 1755. At the peak of the main entrance archway you will find the Aviz cross, which is the symbol of the religious/military order to which Albufeira pertained.
- Sant'Ana Gate
One of the entrances to the castle, which provided access to the chapel of the same name.
- Sant'Ana Church
This temple was constructed in the 18th century. Mor Chapel presents a wooden altarpiece that may have been the work of Francisco Xavier Guedelha and João Baptista.
- São Sebastião Church
Built in the middle of the 18th century. Outside, you will note a cupola and two Manueline and baroque doorways.
- Nossa Senhora da Orada Shrine This building is located next to Albufeira's marina and its construction dates back to the 16th century, although the second chapel was built during the second half of the 18th century. The procession that takes place on 13-15 August during the Senhora da Orada Festival starts from here.
- Paderne Castle and Wall
Only a small chunk remains but you will find here one of the towers of the castle wall.
- Paderne Medieval Bridge
- San Vicente de la Paz
This monument was built in memory of Brother Vicente de São António. It was bequeathed to the church after the death of his parents.
- Municipal Archaeology Museum
Situated in the old town, the Municipal Archaeology Museum is in the building that housed the local government up to the end of the 80s. With architectural elements typical of southern Portugal, this building is comprised of two floors. The museum has study, conservation, restoration and material storage areas, in addition to a small themed library. Pieces are intimately linked to the history of Albufeira, from its distant origins to the 17th century. They are divided into four main categories: Prehistory, Roman Period, Islamic Period and Modern Age.
- Museum of Sacred Art
- Historic Archive and Municipal Library
Unique examples of historic manuscripts on the region, dating back hundreds of years, are kept here.
- Historic centre of Albufeira
- Praça Engenheiro Duarte
- Praça 25 Abril
- Rua Almirante Viewpoint
- Peneco Elevator
- Albufeira Marina
- Algarve Shopping Centre
- Zoomarine (theme park ) This is the most popular theme park in Albufeira. In addition to being the home of different animal species, ranging from sharks to birds, it also hosts dolphin and seal shows. It's great for a family day out.