A Reading Journey Through the Algarve

The Algarve – the West. Not just in Portugal, but in the Islamic world as well. A corner of the earth with a rich history and unique charm.

The architecture, cultural traditions, and even the local cuisine reflect the influences of different peoples.

Faro, for example, the current capital of the coastal region, originated as a Phoenician settlement that later developed into the Roman city of Osunoba. In Santa Luzia, fishermen still catch octopus using ancient methods; in Olhão, graffiti art and confectionery vie for attention. Shellfish play a vital role on the island of Colatra; in Tavira, tuna brought wealth. Vila Real de Santo António’s name reflects its aristocratic character. But it’s not just the sea, with its lagoons, dramatic coastal cliffs, and golden beaches, that makes up the Algarve landscape: the interior also offers breathtaking aspects. Rita Haines travels through the present and past of the Algarve, to its people and their daily lives.

Rita Hens, born in Frankfurt in 1956, had been commuting between this large city on the Main River and the island of Madeira for eight years. Her travels around the world took her primarily to Southern Europe, South America, and the Arab world.