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Castle · Tavira, Faro
Castelo de Tavira e Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo
Remains of the medieval castle at Tavira's highest point, with a garden inside the walls and views over the roofs and the Ria Formosa. Beside it, the Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo houses the tomb of D. Paio Peres Correia.
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 Castelo de Tavira e Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo
Tavira Castle occupies the town's highest point. It has Muslim origins and was rebuilt after the Christian conquest in 1242 by D. Paio Peres Correia, master of the Order of Santiago.
Remnants of walls and towers remain. Inside there is a small garden with flowers and trees, and from the top of the walls the view covers the four-sloped roofs, church towers and the Ria Formosa.
Next to it is the Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo, built in the 13th century, likely on the site of an earlier mosque, and rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake. It contains the tomb of D. Paio Peres Correia and of seven knights killed in an ambush before the town's conquest.
From the churchyard the view also reaches the town and the river.
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
From 30 minutes to an hour.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon. The castle and the church have their own opening hours: check before you go.
How to get there
It sits above the historic centre, about a 5-minute climb from the Praça da República.
Tip
Climb the walls to see the roofs from above. Entrance to the castle garden is usually free.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Castelo de Tavira e Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo
Who is buried in the Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo?
D. Paio Peres Correia, who conquered Tavira, and seven knights killed in an ambush.
What to see at the castle?
The remains of the walls, the garden and the view of the town and the Ria Formosa.
Is the castle far from the square?
No, about a 5-minute uphill walk.