Lagos, a city with 450 years of history

The Algarve inspires us to get off the beaten track and explore some unique places that played an important role in shaping the world today. The age of discoveries began from these shores - and we can find echoes of these journeys in towns like the traditional coastal town of Lagos. One of the Algarve's most important historic points of interest, Lagos recently celebrated 450 years of history as a city. A fascinating city situated on the picturesque Western Algarve coastline. It is a city that boasts a rich seafaring heritage, pristine beaches and authentic Portuguese character.

Lagos is one of the Algarve's most important historic points of interest. Its 17th century marine fortress once played a vital role in securing the Algarve from invaders, while those climbing the 182 steps to the Ponta da Piedade will be rewarded with a breath-taking view of the bay that launched the Age of Discoveries. Many centuries ago, daring voyages to the farthest flung parts of the world would have set sail from here into uncharted seas.

The city walls date back to this Roman period of expansion, until they were rebuilt by the Moors in the 10th century and the city named Zawaia. It remained as such until the town was conquered by the Christians in 1249 and became part of Portuguese territory again. The walls were reinforced during the 16th century between the reigns of D. Manuel and Filipe I, due the need to protect the growing city from attack, with nine towers and seven gates built to house artillery and the powerful Portuguese fleet.

This was a golden age for Lagos, as ships left Portugal to explore the Americas and Africa. Year after year, new lands were discovered, and trade routes introduced exotic products and spices throughout Europe. Ironically, while the earthquake and tsunami of 1755 ended its golden age, its rebuilding was also inspired by the ocean. A heritage of maritime traditions that live on to this day, generation after generation - a passion for the sea that will never leave these shores.