Tavira is one of the most traditional and unspoiled villages of the Algarve coast.

Tavira along with Lagos is one of the most architecturally attractive towns in the Algarve and its origin dates back to around 2.000 BC. During the occupation of the Algarve by the Moors this town was considered of great importance due to its fishing industry. In Tavira, attention also goes to the traditional residences with their latticed entrance ways and "treasury" roofs.

The places to see

Like most of the Algarve its buildings were all virtually destroyed by the earthquake of 1755. The town has since been rebuilt with many fine 18th Century fine buildings along with its 37 churches. A 'Roman' bridge (actually Moorish) links the two parts of the town across the River Gilão. The church of Santa Maria do Castelo, built on the site of a Moorish mosque holds the tombs of D Paio Peres Correia and his knights. The church dates from the 13th century and the clock tower has been remodelled from the original Muslim minaret. A bust of Dom Paio Perres Correia who died in 1275 can be seen on the corner of the town hall.

Integrated in the Ria Formosa

In the surroundings, don't miss a visit to the small village of Cacela Velha or to the small island of Tavira, a white sand beach, 11 km long, which is integrated in the Ria Formosa Natural Park. The connections between Tavira and the island are assured by a regular boat line (departing from the city market or from a place called "Quatro Águas") and by taxi-boats. The island and beaches can also be reached from the nearby footbridge in Santa Luzia.

A new golf destination

Tavira's original economic reliance on the fishing industry has now been surpassed due to the change in the migration patterns of the tuna fish. The population is in the region of 20,000 inhabitants supporting a military base whilst the surrounding area is still very rural and undeveloped. This is now changing due to the demands of the tourist industry and opening of golf courses in the near vicinity.
See all golf courses at the Algarve.