- Faro is a cathedral city located on the ria Formosa Lagoon in Algarve Region in southern Portugal.
- It became the Roman city of Ossonoba in the Province of Lusitania.
History
- Faro was founded by the Phoenicians in the 4th century BCE, and subsequently came under the control of the Romans, the Byzantines, the Visigoths and the Moors.
- The Ria Formosa Lagoon is designated a Natural Park and is visited every year by thousands of birds on their migratory journeys. Three cities are located near the lagoon: Faro, Tavira and Olhao.
Roman Sites
- Faro Walls and Octagonal Towers
- Although these date from the period of rule of the Byzantine Empire (6th-7th century CE), parts of the walls date from the earlier Roman Period.
Roman Sites nearby
- Mirobriga
- A Roman Town 100 miles (160 km) north of Faro.
- Cerro da Vila
- A Roman Villa with mosaics (1st century CE) 14 miles (23 km) northwest of Faro.
- Roman Ruins of Milreu (or Estoi)
- These are the remains of a Villa rustica, that include mosaics, baths, a temple, a mausoleum and other structures. It is 5.6 miles (9km) north of Faro.
- Tavira Roman Bridge
- This is 18 miles (30 km) east from Faro.
Museums
- Faro Archeological Museum
- Located at Largo Dom Afonso II 14, 8000-167 in Faro, the museum holds a large collection of Roman Artefacts.
Roman Roads
- Via Lusitanorum (nearby)
- Via Augusta (nearby)
Casa do Arco do Repouso, Walls of Faro, Faro