Sé Catedral de Silves
The construction of the cathedral of Silves started in the second half of the 13th century after the Moors had been expelled definitely. It is very probable that the existing foundations of a destroyed mosque were used. The layout of the house of God is similar to the form of a Passion cross.
Silves was until 1577 seat of a bishop that then has been transferred to Faro.
The different construction styles from various eras in the interior of the church strike the eye immediately.
In the floor are tombs of bishops, crusaders and a tomb for King D. João II (1465 – 1495). His remains were translated in 1499 to the monastery Batalha (central Portugal).
In a side aisle are two stony sarcophagus.
Opening hours are daily from 8:30 h to 18:30 h.
Igreja da Misericórdia de Silves
The church is situated opposite the cathedral and seems rather unimposing. It was built in the 16th century and was meant to serve the welfare.
The church cannot be visited at all time. Please ask at the tourist information.
Igreja Nossa Senhora dos Mártires
According to the legend the church was ordered to be built by King Dom Sancho I in the 13th century in remembrance of the knights who had been killed in the battle against the Moors. Actually, the building dates from the 16th century according to the latest research results.
The church is open on Saturdays for mass.
On the church square is a memorial for the crusaders who were killed during the battle for Silves.
Cruz de Portugal
The about 3 m high limestone cross is located by the N240 shortly before the town exit, driving direction S. Bartolome de Messines, the former main street to Lisbon.
In the year 1910 it has been classed as national monument.
The origin dates from the 15th or 16th century. The historic background is disputed.
Jesus on the cross is depicted on the frontside and the suffering Mary on the backside.