. Photo credit: joaoa

Alvor is a quaint coastal village within the popular tourist region of the Algarve, Portugal, located along Portugal's southern-most coast. Even though tourists have discovered Alvor in recent years and it is not the “hidden gem” it once was, its narrow, medieval streets have prevented the flood of cheap new development that has ruined so many other once-beautiful tourist destinations.

Beaches and History

Only six kilometers southwest of the larger town of Portimao, Alvor is a picturesque place that draws visitors both because of its natural beauty and its historical attractions. Beach-goers will love the natural lagoon that Alvor is situated along, and there are plenty of more private coves for those looking to escape the crowds.

. Photo credit: joaoa

Within Alvor, visitors will be charmed by the variety of historical sites, from the Roman ruins just inland from the village to the elegant churches and winding old-town streets. Alvor was originally settled by the Carthaginians, later fell into Roman hands, was held for a while by the Moors, and eventually became a part of modern-day Portugal. Though most of the older sites were destroyed by a large earthquake in 1755, a few of the older buildings still remain. In particular, the Igreja Matriz do Alvor, also called the Mother Church of Alvor, dates from the sixteenth century, with parts of the church having been rebuilt in the eighteenth century. Revealing its significance in the lives of the fisherman who made Alvor their home for so many centuries, the church has doors and pillars that have been carved into the shape of fishing ropes. A panel in the church to Our Lord of the Navigators also emphasizes the connection between the villagers and the sea.

Two marabout chapels are also located within Alvor. “Marabout” is an Islamic term, referring to Islamic religious leaders and scholars, and often implying an associated mysticism. Marabout mosques, like the two marabout chapels in Alvor, are cubical structures with spherical cupolas where these holy men would be buried. The Moors built these two marabouts in Alvor, and when Christians reclaimed the town, they were transformed into the Chapels of St. John and St. Peter. The chapels are representative of the blending of cultures and ideas that took place in the middle ages throughout southern Spain and Portugal.

On a hill above the town are the remains of the thirteenth century Alvor Castle. All that remains of the castle are a few stretches of wall, but located amongst the ruins is a children's playground. For families, a walk to the castle ruins makes a nice afternoon that everyone will find enjoyable.

Modern Enough to be Comfortable

. Photo credit: jonrawlinson

But there's more to do in Alvor than marvel at the old architecture and cobblestone streets. At night, the bars open and live music pours out upon the open streets. Rua Dr Frederico Roma Mendes is the main street upon which to find Alvor's nightlife. There are a surprising variety of restaurants and cafes, and with its proximity to the sea, the seafood is especially prominent and worth trying. Close to Alvor's river are also a variety of fish markets, which are also definitely worth a visit.

Although it is still possible to rent local villa or apartment, surrounding Alvor, tourists will also find plenty of modern, spacious resorts to choose from. The resorts bridge the best of both worlds: tourists can stay in modern comfort and amenities, while walking into town and exploring Alvor's history.