Lagos Maps

Lagos is a historic coastal city situated in Portugal's Algarve region. With a history spanning over 2,000 years, it played a crucial role during Portugal's Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries, serving as a major departure point for maritime expeditions. The city was also Europe's first slave market, established in 1444, and remained an important center for the slave trade until its abolition.

The city is renowned for its stunning natural features, including the Ponta da Piedade, a dramatic headland formed by weathered limestone cliffs rising nearly 20 meters above the Atlantic Ocean. These cliffs are punctuated by a series of grottos, arches, and sea caves that can be explored by boat. The area is also home to several pristine beaches, including Praia do Camilo, Praia Dona Ana, and Meia Praia, which stretches for over 4 kilometers, making it the longest beach in the Lagos region.

Historical landmarks in Lagos include the Governor's Castle (Castelo dos Governadores), originally built in the 13th century and reconstructed in the 16th century, and the Slave Market Museum (Mercado de Escravos), which was Europe's first slave market and now serves as a museum documenting this dark period in history. The Church of Santo António, built in the 18th century, is notable for its elaborate baroque interior featuring gilt-carved woodwork and traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles.

Today, Lagos has a population of approximately 32,000 and maintains a strong tourism-based economy. The city's marina, constructed in 1994, can accommodate 462 vessels and has become a central point for leisure activities and water sports. The historic center remains well-preserved, with sections of the 16th-century town walls still standing. The city experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm, dry summers, making it a popular destination throughout the year.