Albufeira is one of the three main tourist destinations of the Algarve. It was once a fishing village, today it is a modern resort with countless hotels and guesthouses located near sandy beaches.
Albufeira was founded in Roman times, and the name meaning "castle on the water" owes the Moors. From their reign, only the arch that was once part of the mosque survived to this day. Around it extends Cerro da Vila, a former fishing village with white houses and narrow streets, and the most important monument of the city is now the 17th century church, where the statue of Nossa Senhora da Orada from the 15th century is stored. Every year during the pilgrimage ceremony, fishermen carry her to the sea in a solemn procession.
In the second half of the 20th century, the recreational part of Albufeira expanded around the Old Town. It consists of hotels, guesthouses, bars and restaurants. Every year, around 350 thousand relax on the sandy beaches nearby. people. The beaches are well developed, with the option of renting sunbeds and umbrellas and water equipment.
