With such an eventful and important past it is hardly surprising that the town is so fascinating, being particularly blessed with the substantial remains of the huge red sandstone walls of the Castle. It is a tribute to the skills of the Moors who established Silves as the capital of their province of al-Gharb somewhere between the 11th and 13th centuries although it is considered that the castle was perhaps started by the Romans or even the Visigoths. Little remains of the castle itself but within the walls the 1.2 hectares of grounds, planted with shady trees, shrubs and flowers are the findings of exposed archæological digs and a modern (1941) bronze statue of Dom Sancho 1. A walk around the battlements provides excellent views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

The other prominent feature of the town is Sé Velha (Old Cathedral) also built from the local red sandstone and possibly on the site of the Moorish mosque. The Christian structure was commenced during the late 13th to early 14th Centuries but part collapsed during the 15th Century thereby necessitating changes which appear to have continued well into the 18th Century.

It is difficult today to appreciate the size and importance of the River Arade in the growth and subsequent richness that was once enjoyed by Silves, however, with the passing of time its economic, political and military influences declined as the coastal ports of Faro, Portimão and Lagos grew. Together with the silting up of the River Arade the maritime importance was lost and now only supports small tourist boats on day trip from Portimão.

Silves is surrounded by the largest orange growing area in Portugal and still retains its interest in cork production and processing. It is a quiet but popular market town serving locals and tourists alike, all of whom take advantage of the active daily covered market. The town’s steep cobbled streets have a variety of restaurants and cafes to suit the occasion.