Faro is the capital of Algarve, and is a region that is characterized by its natural beauty as well as the multitude of outdoor and leisure activities to do in this region. You should definitely check it out on your vacation in Vilamoura.
Being the main urban center of the region, Faro is composed of several freguesias:
Freguesia de Santa Barbara de Nexe:
Area: 38.25 Km2 (INE)
Population: (in 2001): 4,119 (INE)
Freguesia de Estoi:
Area: 46.58 Km2
Population: (in 1991): 3,159
Freguesia de Conceição de Faro:
Area: 21.80 Km2
Population: (in 1991): 3,668
Freguesia de São Pedro:
Area: 10.98 Km2
Population: (in 1991): 14,428
Freguesia da Sé
Area: 62.58 Km2
Population: (in 1991): 25,637
Freguesia de Montenegro:
Area: 23.73 Km2
In the 18th Century, Faro was the main urban center of Algarve and also the most prosperous and most populous one. The construction of temples and housing, public buildings and the successive campaigns of ornamentation created a strong artistic environment. The Cathedral, Church of Ordens Terceira de Nossa Senhora do Carm (Order of Our Lady Carmen) or, the Church of São Francisco (Saint Francisco), the Church of da Misericórdia (Mercy), and the Convent of Santo António are great testimonies to the city´s artistic past.
Currently the city of Faro is refurbishing and protecting its old buildings through the Historical Center.