Faro Archaeological Museum

Also known as the Museu Municipal, this was founded as an archaeological museum in 1894 and is well worth a visit if you are in Faro.  It occupies the site of the 16th century convent of Nossa Senhora da Assunção (Our Lady of the Assumption) whose peaceful, cloistered gardens alone make the visit worthwhile.

Most of the exhibits here are of Roman artefacts, but there are also collections from pre-historic, Moorish and medieval periods, including a gallery of religious artworks and some 20th century paintings by local artist Carlos Porfirio, whose works depict scenes from local legends.

For most visitors a highlight of any visit is likely to be the outstanding mosaic of sea-god Oceanus, which was excavated from a site close to the city’s railway station in 1976. There are also busts of Emperor Hadrian and Agrippina.

In a prominent position at the entrance to the museum is a statue of Afonso III, who was king of Portugal in 13th century.  Also outside the museum is a statue of Constantino Cumano an Italian-born doctor and political activist who lived for some time in Faro and specialised in the treatment of syphilis, a disease which was rampant throughout Europe in the 19th century.