Things to do in Faro

Faro is the capital of the Algarve and its largest city, but it is also one of the least touristed, as many visitors choose to stay in the nearby resorts. The old walled city of Faro (Cidade Velha) has a number of attractions, from its quaint cobblestone streets to buildings dating from as far back as the 16th century, which entice people into the city, offering a truly Portuguese atmosphere.

Chapel of Bones (Capela d'Ossos)

The interior of the 19th century Chapel of Bones (Capela d'Ossos) is lined with human skulls and bones, 1,245 of them in total, making it qualify as Faros most bizarre attraction. It's open daily from May to September, and with somewhat reduced hours from October to April. There is a small entrance fee to the chapel.

Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte do Carmo do Faro

This Baroque-style church was built in 1713 and features a splendid gilded altar. The faade has statues located in niches on both sides of the main portal and bell towers rising from each side that are topped with gilded cupolas, connected by a balustraded railing. Its latticed windows on the upper level are framed in gold. The Chapel of Bones (Capela d'Ossos) can be entered through a courtyard at the rear of the church. There is no entrance fee.

The old S

Another religious monument of note is the old cathedral (S), located on Largo da S. It was built in both the Gothic and Renaissance styles, and was erected on a site originally occupied by a mosque. The cathedral is best known for its tiles, dating from as early as the 17th century. Inside the cathedral, on the right, is the Capela do Rosrio, containing the most beautiful of the early tiles, sculptures of Nubians bearing lamps and a famous chinoiserie organ. Its lovely cloisters are Faros most idyllic spot. The cathedral is open from Monday through Friday, while Mass is held on Saturdays and scheduled services on Sundays. There is no admission charge.

Igreja de So Francisco

On Largo de So Francisco is the Church of San Francis. Viewing the church from the outside, there is no clue to the beauty of its Baroque interior. Glazed earthenware tile panels depict the life of St Francis, the churchs patron saint, and one of the chapels is richly gilded. It is open from Monday through Friday.

Museu Municipal

Faro has three minor museums which you might find interesting, particularly on a rainy day. The Municipal Museum (Museu Municipal) is the most notable of the three, located at Praa Afonso III 14 and housed in a 16th century convent, the Convento de Nossa Senhora da Assuno. The two-storey cloister is worth visiting and there are many artefacts on exhibit in the museum, dating from the Roman era. A number of statues were excavated from the Roman ruins at Milreu. The museum is open from Tuesday through Friday.