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Albufeira was a thriving seaport which in Roman times was known
as Baltum and later changed by the Moors to Al-Buhera. During the Moors 8th
Century occupation the town became an important trading port. It had
its own castle, that was later destroyed in the earthquake of 1755. Happily,
most of the older parts of the town that survived have been carefully
maintained. The Old Town of
Albufeira is a lovely place to stroll around, either in the morning when
it's quiet, or in the evening when it comes alive. There are dozens of
pavement cafes where you can watch the street musicians and buskers, and a
huge choice of restaurants and shops which cater to all tastes and budgets.
Also there are important historic buildings. The Clock Tower found at Rua
Bernardino de Sousa could be the symbol of the city. During the 19th century
this tower was adorned with an iron crown which holds the bell that rings
out the hours and is illuminated on festivals
Other places of interest near to Albufeira are, Armação de Pera, Boliqueime,
Guia, Silves and Paderne with its ruined castle perched on an isolated hill
some distance from the village. At Ponte Grande there are impressive caverns
with large arches and the underwater caverns of Grutas do Xorino.
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