In the rolling hinterland, less than twenty kilometres from the sea, lies the former capital of the Algarve. Silves is best known for its beautiful red castle built on a hill. But there is more to discover in this charming town.
The location of Silves, on the edge of the Serra de Monchique, gives the city an edge. This mountain range in the western part of the Algarve is a protected nature reserve. Rugged, fertile landscapes with fields full of orange trees surround Silves. The medieval town was the centre of the Arab occupation in this area about a thousand years ago.
No matter which way you come towards Silves, you can see the enormous castle in the distance. This iconic building of red sandstone was built by the Moors on the highest point of the city. At that time, they ruled over Silves and the surrounding area and were able to defend their valuable territory. Castelo dos Mouros means 'the castle of the Moors'.