Tavira, Portugal. Photo credit: anaru

Tavira in the Algarve of Portugal can trace its history back to 2000 BC. When the Moors dominated this area, Tavira thrived as a fishing village. Tavira and most of the Algarve was claimed from the Moors by the Portuguese around 1242. In the 18th century, it was a port city of some significance because products like wine, salt and dried fish were shipped from their piers. Along with most of the other towns in the Algarve, Tavira suffered considerable destruction when it was hit by a severe earthquake in the mid 1700s. The town began rebuilding soon thereafter and many of these buildings remain today. In fact, the architecture of Tavira and the surround villages, that includes dozens of wonderful churches, is probably the second biggest attraction to the town for visitors after the beaches and the Atlantic Ocean.

Roman Bridge in Tavira. Photo credit: Falcon505

The main beach of Tavira can be reached by ferries to the small island of Ilha de Tavira, which is part of the Ria Formosa. You can also get to this beach on foot, using the footbridge from Santa Luzia. The beach is very long and conducive to all types of water sports. Other beaches in the Tavira area include Cabanas, which is reachable by boat and very isolated. Barril beach is big enough to provide the activities of big city beaches but also offers the opportunity to find some more secluded areas.

The Ria Formosa mentioned earlier is a lagoon near Tavira that is surrounded by several small islands. The islands of the Ria Formosa offer sites and activities besides the beaches. Some of the other things to do and see in and around Tavira are:

· Santa Luzia is famous for its restaurants that serve traditional Portuguese food.

· Luz de Tavira, one of the Ria Formosa islands is a great spot to view the unusual architecture of the area. Many of the houses are decorated with geometric designs or with flower. The mortar work around the doorways in Luz de Tavira are often considered works of art.

. Photo credit: BK59

· The main church at Luz de Tavira was constructed in the 1500s and a good part of the original structure is still there. This is a great example of Renaissance architecture.

· Almond and orange trees flourish in the village of Santa Catarina da Fonte do Bispo. They also have a 16th century church that is worth a visit.