Olhão
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Olhão is an exciting, animated, and bustling fishing port. The fishermen's quarter of old Olhão is a warren of narrow twisting streets. There are endless squared-sided white houses framed in blue and grey. Brightly coloured boats rest at the harbour after their dawn fishing trips. Each of Olhão's special features reflect the traditional Portuguese lifestyle, which has been lost in many other Algarve towns.
Architecturally the town is well known for flat terraced roofs and straight box-shaped chimneys give a distinctly Moorish flavour. One of the most distinguishing buildings in Olhão is the fish market. Every morning the huge building bulges with a lively atmosphere and an impressive variety of fish, as fishermen compete to sell their wares. Local farmers can also be found selling such products as fruit, honey and live chickens. It is a fascinating kaleidoscope of sights, sounds and smells. Afterwards cafes by the quayside are the perfect place to sit, relax and take in the surroundings. With about 30,000 inhabitants Olhão was raised to the status of a town in 1808 when 17 fishermen crossed the Atlantic Ocean without charts to announce to the exiled king of Portugal that the French invading armies had been defeated. One of Olhão's 'claims to fame' is the site of the first canning factory for tuna and sardines in 1882. As a results of this, canning factories spread along the coast, became one of the leading industries of the Algarve. It was the abundance of fish that first attracted fishermen to the spot where the town of Olhão now stands. The first stone building was the church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário, work on which began in 1698. However the 19th century was the most important century for Olhão's growth. The trade networks established by Olhão's mariners, mean today it is an active, dynamic town with an increasingly diverse economy; fishing however continues to be the main source on income. Olhão retains the authentic flavour of Algarve lifestyle. It is a perfect spot to simply soak up the atmosphere of a place which is so full of life. Not to mention the fabulous water facilities. Altogether it is the perfect hybrid of culture and activity. Places of Interest Main Church - this church was paid for with donations from the local fishermen. With a majestic baroque façade bordered by angels, inside the roof is decorated with fresco, and an impressive triumphal arch. The statue of Our Lady of the Afflicted - Nossa Senhora dos Aflitos, at the back of the church, is especially revered by those, connected with the sea. Church of Our Lady of Solitude /Nossa Senhora da Soledade - This is the former place of worship for the fishing village with modest rural architecture. At the entrance, a slab covers an old well used to wash the church. Capela do Espírito Santo Holy Spirit Chapel - A major site of religious pilgrimages during the 17th and 18th centuries which boasts a vast and significant patrimony from that period. Amongst its most remarkable features are colourful tiles from the 17th century and paintings representing the Heart of Jesus. Library Museum - Although quite small this museum holds a fascinating collection of archaeological exhibits related to the history of Olhão and the surrounding municipality. The Fishing Port - a perfect place to share in the excitement of fleets returning with shimmering catches. In particular the 'covos' pots used to catch octopus are objects of great curiosity and excitement. A place of fascinating shapes and textures, a must see while in Olhão. Parque Natural da Ria Formosa Reserve - is considered the most important wildlife sanctuary in the Algarve. Here resting within the beautiful lagoons, marshes, channels are abundant numbers of cockles, clams and oysters. Rare birds fly above looking for food. This natural reserve stretches along 40 miles and is a rich ecosystem kids and adults alike will find this fascinating. Marim Cottage - built it in 1916, at the Quinta do Marim, in a pine-wood by the sea, two years before he died. João Lúcio, a poet, musician and painter is a charismatic figure of Olhão. Beaches Ilha da Culatra and Ilha da Armona - For the best beaches in Olhão a regular ferry service takes visitors to the nearby small islands of Ilha da Culatra and Ilha da Armona. Being so long these beaches offer everything; they can be quiet retreats as well as offering exciting water activities: canoeing, windsurf, sailing and diving all backed by excellent local services. It is because of amazing conditions that Olhão is so famous for its water sports this making it a great destination for active families. Festivals - In the summer, Olhão is stage for the famous "Festa do Marisco" (literally "Shellfish Party"). This party is made of many stalls where visitors can taste all sorts of fish dishes at a very reasonable price, while they listen to the performances of singers and bands. |
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