Walls and castles to defend the eastern regions

The 1755 earthquake severely affected the Algarve. Nevertheless, many of the castles and forts, which in earlier times defended the region, stood firm. 

Alcoutim Castle captured from the Moors in the 13^th Century, proudly shows off its towers and vast circle of walls, inside of which there is a small museum.

Castro Marim Castle was built on the site where a Moorish fort once existed.  In Vila Real de Santo António, the mediaeval 12^th Century fort of Cacela-a-Velha was transformed into a modern castle in the 17^th Century.

Going west, there is Tavira Castle built by the Moors on an old Roman Castrum.

In Faro, the capital of the Algarve, visitors can get a glimpse of the Moorish Walls which, in earlier times, were an important outpost.  Within the walls, the castle was the last refuge of the fort.

Loulé Castle originally constructed with two lines of walls, now has only the inner wall.  In Albufeira, there is Paderne Castle with the Portuguese flag hoisted.  This was once a Moorish castle which was captured by the Christians. Visitors can see its towers, remains of its walls and the main door.