Algarve landmarks selected for Portugal's new Seven Wonders competition

Seven sites from the Algarve region have been chosen to represent the south of Portugal in the national "New Seven Wonders of Portugal" contest. The competition, revived after nearly two decades, invites buildings and monuments rather than natural landmarks, aiming to highlight places that have shaped the country’s history and culture.

From 629 nominations nationwide, a panel of experts shortlisted 147 finalists across seven categories. The Algarve’s entries include Aljezur Castle in the Castles category, a well‑preserved 10th‑century Moorish fortress; the Marina de Portimão in the Great Works category, a modern marina that has become a major leisure hub; the archaeological Ribat da Arrifana in the History category, a 12th‑century site linked to Islamic scholarship; and the Church of Santa Maria do Castelo in Tavira for the Religion category, built on the former mosque after the Christian reconquest.

These four landmarks will compete with selected sites from other regions for a place among Portugal’s new Seven Wonders, a title that could boost tourism and regional recognition.