Walking - Tavira town walk

Start walk from the Roman Bridge. On your right, note the beautiful blue and white glazed tile plaque, dedicated to the courageous men of Faro and Tavira who defended the bridge during the political revolution of 1383 - 1385. Cross the Praca da Republica with street cafes on the right, the monument commemorating the Great War of 1914 - 1918 in the centre, and the Town Hall behind the monument. Turn right into the Rua da Galleria. The steps will lead you through the original gates of the city. Note the holes where the cross bars once were positioned. The arch of Porta de D Manuel shows the royal coat of arms of King Manuel 1st, also known as O Venturoso.Continue uphill, passing the Tourist information office on the left, you will now be facing the magnificent 16th Century Misericórdia Church. The detail of the facade shows a renaissance portico, an image of Our Lady of Compassion with Saint Peter and Saint Paul at either side, and both Royal and City coats of arms.

The interior of this church is worth a closer inspection. Note the impressive gold altar, the woodwork painted to give a marbled effect, and the decorative glazed tiles which depict the works of the sisters of mercy. Previously a charitable service, many of these good works are still carried out today by the Sisters of Mercy, employed by the local community.On leaving the church, turn left, and proceed uphill. Pass through a small square. At the end, look right and you will see the River Gilao. Turn left, proceed up hill, until you see house number 34. This is an excellent example of a traditional Portuguese house. Note the Moorish style wooden door, with a grille structure to allow air flow into the house, without allowing prying eyes to look upon the women inside, strictly forbidden by their religion. The chimney, windows and their dressing are also in keeping with tradition.You will see examples of this detail elsewhere in Tavira, but are unlikely to view them all in one house, and in such good condition. At the top of this street Ballana Is Anna is the Nossa Senhora da Graca Convent. This building dates from the 16th century and was on the site of the former Jewish quarter. The church with a beautiful baroque facade and the cemetery remain. It has been renovated into a pousada. This is a state run hotel in a restored, ancient building of high historical interest.

Bear left, and you will approach the entrance to the Tower of Tavira, a former water tower of the Alto de Santa Maria which has been developed into an camera obscura. This is a must see point. Using a series of mirrors and lenses it offers unusual and spectacular views of the town, and also a most interesting commentary by a very knowledgeable, enthusiastic guide. There is also a small cafe here. Leaving the water tower, proceed across the square. You will see the church of Santa Maria do Castelo Church on the left. This church originated in the 13th century from a mosque. Rebuilt following the earthquake of 1755. External features are a gothic doorway and window and the station of the cross on the outer facade. Internally you will find the stones marking the tombs of the seven nights and Dom Paio Peres Correia, who were killed in the battle in Tavira between the moors and christians. The gardens facing this church are also very pleasant. This square which was formerly the main Town square is one of the most exciting in the town for its historical interest. Within this square is also the Church of Sao Tiago with a unique construction of facade and bell tower with yellow gold and white detail. Also in this square is a good viewing point before entering the castle grounds. There are excellent views of the castle walls, and the view towards the town. Continue towards the entrance to the medieval castle. Originally built during the occupation by the Moors, only the ruins and one of two octagonal towers remain. From this tower, which is on your left as you enter, are magnificent views of Tavira, showing fantastic architectural detail of the churches, the unique 'tesouro' rooftops, and the river with the salt pans in the distance. The garden is a delightful place to relax, and artists are often seen here capturing the beauty. Take care as after dark it is rumored that the garden is haunted by a ghost of a princess who is looking for her love, so do not rest too long. When leaving the castle proceed straight ahead to the Calcada da Galeria. Turn right and proceed down this street. On the left is a small shop, the Tavira Association of Arts and Flavours, selling local, traditional ware. This street leads you to the Galleria Palace. This building dates from the 16th century, but most of the baroque style is from the 18th century. It is worth a visit as it has exhibitions, a wide range of books about Tavira and interesting views. Proceed down the steps towards the Rua da Galleria.

You will pass the Church of Misericórdia on your left, and the tourist office on your right. Depart through the Porta de D Manuel and cross the road. The Town Hall should be on your left. If you look up you will see the face of Paio Peres Correia, a very important man in the battles to end the Moors occupation of Tavira. On the front of the building you will see the city coat of arms depicting a ship and a castle with two towers. The poles are adorned with numerous flags during civil occasions. Proceed into the gardens which are the starting point for the next walk.