A Marketplace Called Loulé

This is a 3-hour walking exploration of Loulé, a traditional Portuguese market town. Loulé is truly a melding of history, culture, and craft. The blend of Moorish architectural influence, with artisans preserving age-old techniques, creates a unique atmosphere. Best known for its cultural vibrancy and the iconic Arabic-inspired market, Loulé is a hub for local produce and crafts. You’ll discover the charm of the old town, with its medieval alleys, historic buildings, and the impressive Church of Matriz, a previous mosque during the Arab period . From the lively farmers' market to the quaint craft shops, each element of this tour offers an authentic taste of Algarve's heritage and the daily life of its people. Key Stops: (1) Arabic-inspired Market: Experience the vibrancy of local trade and craftsmanship. (2) Artisan Workshops: Meet master craftspeople and witness their traditional techniques. (3) Historic Sites: Explore Loulé's historic building including the Church of Matriz.

Loulé has, for centuries, been a commercial place where people came to trade for different products. Hundreds of crafts workshops existed here. The town has some special particularities related with its long history: a castle, Islamic bath, museum, and an iconic market building with Moorish architecture. But, most importantly, it still has special people who keep alive their ancestral craft techniques: Analide, the last coppersmith master in the south of Portugal, Margarida and her husband who create handicrafts from palm weaving, and Xavier: a potter and expert in making traditional chimneys by hand. You will meet them and learn about their work and life.

A local expert, deeply knowledgeable about Loulé’s history and crafts, will guide you through the city’s cultural landmarks and introduce you to its skilled artisans.

Comfortable walking shoes, a camera for capturing memorable moments, a curious mind ready to explore.