Albufeira Landmarks and Monuments

(Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal)

Albufeira's Old Quarter has been shaped by centuries of development and is known for its narrow streets, which are typically Algarvian in style and lined with characterful old houses, often whitewashed.

Many ancient churches in Albufeira were drastically renovated after a devastating earthquake in the 18th century. This means that a large proportion of local landmarks now display an eclectic fusion of architectural styles. There are also several centuries-old Moorish sights dotted around old-town Albufeira.

Igreja of Sant'Ana (Church of St. Anne)

Address: Travessa Primeiro de Dezembro, Albufeira, Portugal, PT
This 18th-century church is one of Albufeira's core monuments and tourist attractions combined. The church's cupola is striking, but it's worth venturing for further exploration. In the sanctuary of the Igreja of Sant'Ana is a detailed wooden crucifix, as well as a wooden altarpiece which depicts Our Lady of Pain. Numerous baroque features also provide further interest.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 18:00
Admission: free

Igreja Matriz (Matriz Church)

Address: Travessa da Igreja Matriz, Albufeira, Portugal, PT
This church also dates to the 18th century, but was built over the site of an older church destroyed by an earthquake. The collection of statues within the Igreja Matriz is rather intriguing and includes depictions of both Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and Our Lady of Supplication. Be sure to take a moment to admire the bell tower and the Cross of Avis.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 18:00
Admission: free

Torre da Medronheira (Medronheira Tower / Old Watch Tower)

Address: Torrei da Medronheira, Albufeira, Portugal, PT
This tower was built in the 1500s and was used to watch the seaward horizon for pirates, invaders or other possible threats. In those days, there were several fortifications like this along the Algarve coast. The Tower of Medronheira is conveniently close to Praia da Maria Luisa and a visit can easily be bundled into a day at the beach.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 18:00
Admission: free

Hermitage de Nossa Senhora da Guia

Address: Rua de 25 Abril, Guia, Albufeira, Portugal, PT
This is one of the finest baroque buildings in Albufeira, framed by Salgados Lake and Epische Creek. Unlike many of the city's other old buildings, this hermitage predates the earthquake of 1755. Construction of the Hermitage de Nossa Senhora da Guia began early in (if not before) the 16th century, although the subsequent earthquake did bring about extensive renovations.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 18:00
Admission: free

Misericordia Chapel

Address: Rua Henrique Calado, Albufeira, Portugal, PT
A tourist would be forgiven for passing by this chapel without noticing. This is a small Gothic chapel that has spent part of its life as a mosque. The first governor of the local castle is entombed within the Misericordia Chapel, while the interior is laid out with interesting carvings and a fine altarpiece.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 18:00
Admission: free

Igreja de Sao Sebastiao (Church of St. Sebastian)

Address: Praca Miguel Bombarda, Albufeira, Portugal, PT
Tel: +351 0289 572 806
This church is an amalgam of styles, with heavy baroque and Manueline influence. It looms over Miguel Bombarda Square, where it was rebuilt after the earthquake. The Our Lady of Piety statue predates the earthquake and receives admirers throughout the year. Other highlights at the Igreja de Sao Sebastiao include a carved wooden depiction of saints and spectacular stone masonry throughout.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 18:00
Admission: free

St. Vicente de Albufeira

Address: Praca Jacinto d'Ayet, Albufeira, Portugal, PT
St. Vicente lived here at the turn of the 17th century, and during his life he travelled around the world as a missionary. He visited Mexico and Japan, where he was tortured for his beliefs. This imposing statue commemorates his eventual martyrdom in Japan and depicts St. Vincente holding a cross high above his head.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 18:00
Admission: free