Focus on Santa Bárbara de Nexe

A Bronze Age fort, subsequently used by both the Phoenicians and the Romans, is an example of how ancient this village is. Surrounded by fields and hills covered in fruit trees, Santa Bárbara de Nexe has proved very popular with expats from all over Europe, due to it’s large exposure to stunning sea views, ideal positioning between Faro, Loule and S. B de Alportel. Being only 10 kms from Faro international airport, beautiful beaches and golf courses, the district is predominantly rural but is also well-served by good local roads.

Built in the 15th century, the church underwent a number of alterations in the 18th century. It has an interior consisting of three naves, with ogival arches. The walls are decorated with polychrome tiles and above the triumphal arch there is a panel depicting the coronation of Santa Bárbara by two angels (1702). For centuries, it has been known for the warmth of its people living in the hamlets spread throughout the territory and also known at international level for its musical accordion traditions and artistic stonework. Human presence in Santa Bárbara can be traced back to approximately 30,000 years ago. In the 14th century, the construction of the Mother church began on the site of an ancient chapel that became a centre of regional processions and where, it was said, that ‘miracles took place’. Santa Bárbara de Nexe became a parish in the 16th century. The chapel of Sta. Catarina dos Gorjoes is a beautiful church dating from the 15th century, and has a single nave and main chapel. It is more of a popular chapel rather than a high, formal church, but its unusual lines make it somewhat special. The Land of Nexe celebrates the New Year with its own special tradition. In the first days of January the “Charolas” or groups of men and women accompanied by instruments (accordion, castanets, tambourines, and triangles) take part in Festivals in Bordeira, Santa Bárbara de Nexe and surrounding villages, and play at the house of friends or local cafes in dramatic improvisations that celebrate the new year and the presence of old friends in an atmosphere of happiness and solidarity, the odd social or political quip being thrown in for good measure. The “Charolas” are the oldest and most authentic of the cultural traditions found in the Land of Nexe, as they are the only groups in the region to have their own traditional poetry, improvisation and a marked absence of religious symbolism. In the sweeping landscape that characterizes this rural part of the Algarve, the Land of Nexe is an authentic and peaceful Mediterranean amphitheatre tucked into the foothills of the Sierra of Monte Figo. There are spectacular views from here to the Ria Formosa and the Atlantic Ocean, appreciated by all who visit. Paths crisscross the land with ancestral windmills as points of reference along these ancient rural byways. Relax and wander alongside the beautiful Mediterranean flora and fauna, wonderful landscapes blending with the heritage of windmills and ancient wells.