Algarve

Algarve (ulgär'vu) [key], historic province, 1,958 sq mi (5,070 sq km), extreme S Portugal, coextensive with Faro dist. The capital is Faro, and other important cities are Silves, Portimão, and Lagos. Much fruit (almonds, citrus, grapes, olives, figs, pomegranates) is grown in the Algarve, and there is also mining, offshore fishing, and cork processing. The region is the chief resort area of Portugal. The region was settled by the Phoenicians and later prospered under the Moors, who made it their last stronghold in Portugal. Alfonso III completed its reconquest in 1250.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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