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The Largo a Sé is a picturesque orange tree lined square just inside the city walls, is definitely on the list of must see places. Its history reflects the turbulent history and inhabitants of Faro. The 13th century Cathedral, for example, occupies a site of a Roman Forum, and has obviously been remodeled over the years and contains a mélange of Renaissance, Baroque and Gothic elements. The visitor will notice that an iron stork is perched on top of the spire – a not uncommon symbol in the region for the story is a Portuguese national symbol. The cathedral contains several chapels, each one more interesting than the last – expect to see fine 18th century Italian painting and examples of some of the best Baroque art work in the Algarve, if not Portugal itself. The square opens onto the 18th century Episcopal palace (still in use today) and neighbours a former 16th century convent that is now home to the city' archaeological museum. The museum houses, among other exhibits a fascinating exhibition recounting the Arab occupation. Tourists who are interested in church history or who just have plain taste for the macabre, should consider adding the 'Golden' church of Nossa Senhora Do Carmo to their itinerary. The church contains some of the best gold leaf inlaid woodwork in the whole of Portugal. The church also happens to contain a chapel lined with the bones of over 1200 monks. |