The Algarve, which takes its name from the Arabic ‘al gharb’ meaning the west, is 150 kms long and 50 kms deep, separated to the north by mountain ranges and stretching from Cape St Vincent in the west to the River Guadiana which forms the eastern frontier with Spain.

It has always been a place apart and was a separate kingdom until Portugal became a republic in 1910. It differs sharply from the rest of Portugal in its climate, vegetation and character of its people. For centuries its way of life has been intimately linked with the sea, from the time of the Phoenicians nearly 3000 years ago, to the era of the great Portuguese voyages of discovery, to the modern fishing industry which is a vital part of the country’s economy today.

Many foreigners have left their mark throughout the ages including the Romans who introduced the Latin language and introduced fish-salting stations and spas such as Monchique where the curative waters are still taken.

But it was the Moors who left an indelible imprint on the culture of the Algarve during their 500 year occupation and the Islamic heritage is visible in many spheres including architecture, language, agriculture and food.

The squat, lime-washed cottages topped with ornamental latticed chimneys and gaily painted terrace facias have strong Arab overtones. Decorative glazed tiles, so coveted by the Portuguese and bought by tourists, were introduced by the Moors in the Medieval period.

The Moors perfected the technique for extracting the olive oil and sugar and introduced, among other vegetables and fruits, the orange and the almond.

The almond tree gives rise to the Algarve’s most romantic legend. The wife of a Moorish king was pining for her homeland in the snowy north and fell into a melancholy sleep. When her husband learned of the reason for her illness he ordered a forest of almond trees to be planted everywhere in sight of his castle. When they blossomed the queen was awakened to see the snowflake white fields and was immediately cured.

During its chequered history, the Algarve has been the battle arena for many invading nations. Much of its architectural heritage was devastated by an earthquake in 1755.

Politically, it has witnessed arrant autocracy under a monarchy, an absolute dictatorship of more than 30 years, and, more recently, the twists and turns of democratic government. Mass tourism has opened up a new era in its development as it emerges from its position as Europe’s poor relation and makes the great leap forward within the European Community.

<< back