Algarve Reviews

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

If your driving along the N124 heading into the town of Silves, it hits you …. the Silves Castle. It’s a very impressive structure perched high on a hill. There is a turn out along this N124 road and every time I have passed it there is always a car parked seizing what I call a “picture opportunity moment”.
Of-course I recommend you go closer and see it in person.

This is exactly what I did after the castle reopened after a lengthy time of being shut down to the public for restorations. They found some important artifacts when they started digging and things got a bit behind schedule, but I am happy to report it is now open !
It’s looking really really nice now and they have even added a new siting area and museum within the castle grounds.
Silves is built on top of one of the largest underground aquifers in the south of Portugal, The Querença-Silves Aquifer and evidence of this can be seen once inside the Castle.
Parking close to the main gate should not be too difficult most times of the year. If you elect to park along the main road that runs along the River Arade then be prepared for a little hike up some fairly steep hills. However, this is also a great way to check out the town of Silves. Entry into the castle is very reasonable at around €3 per person.

If you wish to stay a night or two or three …. then there are limited Hotels in the region but are usually quite reasonable. One actually has a wonderful view over to the town.

Silves Castle Video