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Historic center · Lagos, Faro
Centro Histórico de Lagos
Walled old town of Lagos, with the Praça do Infante, the statue of Infante D. Henrique, the Mercado de Escravos, the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira and stone streets full of restaurants.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Centro Histórico de Lagos
Lagos was one of the main departure ports for Portuguese voyages along the African coast in the 15th century, linked to Infante D. Henrique. The historic centre preserves sections of the walls, rebuilt in the 16th and 17th centuries.
In the Praça do Infante D. Henrique, facing the sea, stands the statue of the Infante. Next to it, the Mercado de Escravos building marks the place where, in 1444, one of the first auctions of enslaved Africans in Europe took place. Today it houses a museum section about the slavery route.
On the bay shore, the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira, from the 17th century, protected the harbour entrance, with a drawbridge and sea views.
The centre's streets, paved in Portuguese pavement, have restaurants, bars and shops, and get busy at night, especially in the European summer.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours.
Best time
In the morning for the museums; at night for the street life. The Mercado de Escravos and the fort are closed on some days: check before you go.
How to get there
The centre is about a 10-minute walk from Lagos Station, crossing the bridge over the ribeira.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Centro Histórico de Lagos
What is the Mercado de Escravos de Lagos?
The building where, in 1444, one of the first auctions of enslaved Africans in Europe took place; today it is a museum site.
What to see in Lagos' historic centre?
Praça do Infante, Mercado de Escravos, Forte da Ponta da Bandeira, the town walls and the Igreja de Santo António.
Is the centre far from the station?
No, about a 10-minute walk.