A minute of History
Probably the Carthaginians founded Alvor and its history is interesting. It is said by some that it was really the site of "Portus Hannibalis" and slightly inland are the ruins of a rich Roman villa. In the time of the Moors they named it "Albur" and the town passed through both the Portuguese and Moors hands several times until 1250 when the Christians conquered it for the final time.
Location
The village is well located facing a natural lagoon opening onto the sea. There is a choice of a long open sandy beach or a number of small coves tucked under the cliffs.
General Information
Although this ancient coastal village is now a very popular holiday location the one-ended narrow streets have restrained the developers from changing too much. Many of these streets now boast bars with live music and different types of restaurants but leading off from these there are still memories of the older fishing village.
Art and Culture
The attractive 16th Century Parish Church that seems the only building that survived the earthquake of 1755 and has a prime example in its main doorway of the great craftsmanship of the Manueline era of architecture.
Alternative Activities
Alvor Nearby Locations:
Places near to Alvor are the commercial town of Portimão, the famous popular beaches of Praia da Rocha and Praia do Vau, and the semi-nature reserve of Quinta da Rocha.
Gastronomy
Fish, as you would expect in this charming fishing village, is the dish of the day, The fisherman still set out nightly to haul their catch.