Silves

Silves
Of the ancient city of Xelb with its many mosques, the Moorish capital of the Algarve, the magnificience of which was said to eclipse even that of Lisbon, there remain the red sandstone walls of a castle standing above the white-walled town which rises in tiers up the hillside. Thanks to its protected position inland, in the foothills of the Serra de Monchique, Silves has managed to preserve its character with its steep, cobbled streets.

Trips
Monchique, the highest situated village in the Algarve, at 20 km.

Sights
The Castle - The sentry path around the ramparts affords good views of the town and surrounding countryside.
The Cathedral - (13C) Built on the site of a former mosque. The numerous tombs are said to of the Crusaders who helped to capture the town in 1242.
Cruz de Portugal - The Portuguese Cross.

Museum
Museu Arqueológico - A new archeological museum built against the old city wall.
Fábrica do Inglês - in Silves - Entertainment and culturepark, Corkmuseum.

Tourist Office
Tourist Information Rua 25 de Abril 8300 Silves
Tel. ++351 282-442255