Silves can be traced back to 1.000 BC. Evidence shows that it had importance even in Roman times but it really became a significant place during its occupation in the early 11th Century by the Moors.
The castle is believed to have been erected on top of late Roman Visigothic fortifications dating from the 4th or 5th century and was started around 715 by the first Moorish occupants. There is also an old Roman Bridge (Ponte Romana), which crosses the river.
The city’s Gothic Cathedral (Sé Velha) was built in the 13th century on the site of a Mosque.
It continued to be an important city, especially for trade, until the 15th century but when the River Arade became blocked with silt the city lost its access to the sea. There is still an old Roman Bridge that crosses the river.
Most of the town and nearly all its ancient buildings were destroyed by the earthquake of 1755, however today it is a highly visited city
and a peaceful little town …….. lets go take a look !! Click on picture for video of Silves
SILVES VIDEO