Silves Portugal

Silves, Portugal is an old, walled city that sits among the largest orange growing area in Portugal. This town boasts a Gothic style cathedral, castle, and a beautiful environment that is rich with its Arab past. Every summer, Silves puts on a seven-day beer fest with a number of street celebrations.

Once the capital of the entire district, as recent as the 19th century, Silves was called the Kingdom of the Algarve. This area of Silves is rich in history, which began on a hill dating back to 1000 BC. Through years of research, we know this was a notable place during Roman years but the years when the Moors lived there in the 11th century were even more important.

At that time, Silves was named Xelb. The Moors built elaborate palaces, helping this to become a cultural center. Soon, lions and other wild animals were imported, which historians tell us was allowed to walk around freely. Al-Mutamid was born in Beja in 1040 and at the ripe age of 13, he became ruler of Silves. However, he eventually moved to Spain.

Then by 1189, more than 15,000 people were living in Silves until the Knights of Santiago came to the city bringing with them resistance of Anglo-Norman Crusaders. While under Portuguese King’s control, Silves remained an important place although by the 15th century, the economy began to fail. Today when visiting Silves, you will still be impressed by the castle remains and the underground water reservoir, still in use by the city.

This city is an enchanted and romantic place that is truly a pleasure to visit. There is a beautiful bridge stretching out over the Rio Arade just below the city walls. In addition, many wonderful exhibits of objects found in Silves can be seen, items coming from the Stone Age. If you head to the southwest side of town, you will discover a modern statue, erected to honor and celebrate the 1189 siege while to the northeast of the city you will find a 16th century granite cross.

This type of melting between the old and the new is just one aspect of Silves that makes it so incredibly charming. With the large orange groves, the air is often sweet with the fragrance of orange blossoms and the views are magnificent. Unfortunately, many people overlook the culture and history of this particular city so if you are in Portugal, Silves would be worth the trip.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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