Three hundred sunny days a year have made the provincial city of Faro famous as one of the best resorts in Europe and the most popular holiday destination in Portugal. In summer, its endless sandy beaches are full of foreign tourists and residents of the Portuguese capital. But you can enjoy the ancient historical and cultural monuments throughout the year. It doesn't matter what attracted travelers to this city, the ancient galleys of the Faro Maritime Museum or the Roman ruins of Milreu, everyone should visit the main city shrine. Also, do not forget to take a boat trip to the lagoons of the Ria Formosa Natural Park to see giant killer whales, sea turtles, and friendly dolphins.

A magnificent monument of medieval Portuguese architecture, the Cathedral of Faro, was built long before its official consecration in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary at the end of the 13th century. According to local legend, this place was previously occupied by an ancient Paleochristian church. When the territory of modern Portugal came under the caliphate rule, the church was rebuilt into an Arab mosque, as evidenced by several details in the Moorish style. And only in 1249, after the legendary reconquest of Faro by King Afonso III, the ancient church became Christian again.

Today, this Roman Catholic Church is considered one of the city's main tourist attractions and a real gem of the historic center. Although the exterior of the cathedral is simple, its interior decoration is delightful: fine gilded carvings adorn the whitewashed walls. From the height of the bell tower, you can enjoy a fabulous view of the ancient city and the azure waves of the warm Atlantic Ocean. While observing the ancient monument of sacred architecture, do not forget to attend a religious service and listen to the enchanting sounds of the main relic, the original 17th-century organ.