Roman remains – From Faro to São Brás de Alportel

The ruins of Milreu in Estoi

The residential complex of Milreu in Estoi shows continuous occupation from the 1st to the 11th century. This Roman villa included thermal baths and various surrounding buildings, such as a temple and various commercial and industrial structures that were part of Roman daily life.

The 16th century house and cultural activities

There is also a 16th century house on the site, built over the Roman ruins. Integrated into the visitor route, this house now hosts exhibitions and cultural events after being restored by the Portuguese state in 2001.

Archaeological studies and finds at Milreu

The ruins of Milreu have been extensively studied since 1877 by the Tavira archaeologist Estácio da Veiga, attracting the interest of specialists from all over the world. Among the archaeological finds are mosaics with marine themes, sculptures and marble. Since 1910, the Roman Ruins of Milreu have been considered a national monument.

The Roman baths and the marine mosaics

The thermal baths of Milreu were part of the daily rituals of the Romans and are known for the mosaic panels that decorate their walls and floors. These mosaics, found in the temple, the house and the baths, depict mythological figures, sporting scenes and marine animals.

Maritime trade and the Roman diet

The marine motifs in the mosaics reflect the role of maritime trade in the villa's economic development, thanks to its proximity to the harbour town of Ossónoba (now Faro). Marine fauna was essential to the Roman diet, which included sauces made from fish entrails.

Discovery of the female bust in the thermal baths

During the first excavations near the women's baths, a bust of a woman with a high hairstyle was found. This piece, currently preserved in the National Archaeological Museum in Lisbon, is one of the most important finds from Milreu. The site is open to the public and welcomes visitors interested in Roman history.

São Brás de Alportel's little Roman road

Further north, on National Road 2, in the direction of the Serra do Caldeirão, you'll find the remains of a Roman road in the municipality of São Brás de Alportel. This road was part of Antoninus' Itinerary XXI, one of the main routes of ancient Lusitania, linking different Roman settlements.

Antoninus' itinerary XXI and regional connections

Antoninus' itinerary recorded stations and distances along Roman roads, including directions for travelling between settlements. The causeway was probably a secondary link between Ossónoba (Faro) and Pax Julia (Beja), passing through Milreu. It was gradually abandoned after the construction of a modern road in 1860, remaining only as a rural path for shepherds and locals.

Hiking on the Roman road in São Brás de Alportel

Today, you can explore two preserved stretches of the Roman road in São Brás de Alportel (routes A and B). In the town, next to the Discovered Municipal Swimming Pools, you'll find the Calçadinha Explanatory and Reception Centre, where the walking route begins.

Additional Information:

• Visit the Roman Ruins of Milreu in Estoi to learn more about the Roman past in the Algarve.

• Roman Causeway Explanation and Welcome Centre in São Brás de Alportel offer support to explore the promenade and understand the history of the region.