Living in Tavira

The Christian Reconquista arrived in Tavira in 1242 with D. Paio Peres Correia, a knight from Sant'Iago. Two years later, King Sancho II donated these territories to the Order for reorganization and settlement. Still in the century. XIII, the walls and the Castle were reinforced and the Church of Santa Maria was built.

The city's period of great expansion began in the 19th century. XV, after the Conquest of Ceuta in 1415, which began the Age of Discoveries. It then became an important fishing port and support for the armies and armadas that defended the Portuguese coast and the coastal cities conquered in North Africa. It was also an export port for salted fish, dried fruits, wine and other products. In 1489, King D. João II resided here for a few months and, in 1520, it was elevated to city status by D. Manuel I.

These royal presences were reflected in the enrichment of the city's heritage and expansion. Along the banks of the river, the humblest families settled while the center was chosen by noble families, who thus became close to the political power installed in the Castle. The Church of Misericórdia remains a testimony to this era.

In the century. XVII, Tavira continues to be the major commercial hub of the Algarve. Much of the cultural heritage dates back to that time, also revealing the influence of religious power. Even today we can visit 21 churches in the city, among which the Church of São Paulo, the Church of Santo Antônio, the Igreja do Carmo and the Church of São Francisco stand out. During the century. In the 18th century, Tavira lost its economic power, which it only recovered in the following century, mainly due to tuna fishing and the canning industry.

In Tavira, it is also important to highlight the traditional houses that are found in the area, with their reixa shutters and “scissor” roofs. The shutters are made of wooden slats and allow ventilation even with the windows and door shutters closed. "Scissor" roofs consist of small hipped roofs, each corresponding to a room in the house. "Scissors" is the name given to the crossing of the beams on which the roofs rest.

In addition to its historical interest, one of Tavira's greatest attractions is its natural heritage. The Gilão River, which bathes the city, takes us to the sea, where we find Tavira Island, an extensive 11 km stretch of sand parallel to the coast and which is part of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. These beaches with calm waters and white sand are some of the most popular on the Algarve coast. Connections between Tavira and the Island are made by bus (next to the city market or at Quatro Águas) and by taxi boats, depending on the weather and availability. Don't forget to visit Cacela Velha.

• Santa Maria e Santiago,
• Conceição e Cabanas,
• Luz e Santo Estêvão,
• Santa Catarina da Fonte do Bispo,
• Santa Luzia e Cachopo

• Praia do Barril
• Praia de Cabanas
• Praia da Ilha de Tavira
• Praia da Terra Estreita – Santa Luzia