Algarve Chimneys – Five centuries of an amazing and beautiful architectural tradition

Everyone knows that the Algarve is particularly famous for its beaches, cuisine and entertainment. But there’s more. Take advantage of your holiday at Golden Club Cabanas to learn a bit more about the Algarve’s architecture. In this unique journey, set off to discover one of the most characteristic architectural features of this region of Portugal: the unique Algarve Chimneys, which you can see adorning the rooftops of many houses in the municipality of Tavira.
Many are cylindrical in shape, while others remind you of a prism. But, whatever the design, the chimneys on Algarve rooftops are a symbol of the region and are closely connected to several centuries of Moorish rule throughout the Algarve.
The tradition dates back almost five centuries, to a time when adorning your house with a decorative and personalised chimney was common. In fact, it was normal practice for a master stonemason to assess the cost of his work on the basis of the time he would spend building a chimney to adorn a house. The more complex or delicate the job, the more it would cost the homeowner. Typically, Algarve Chimneys vary in colour from white to, in some cases, tones of blue, with the real value depending on the type of embellishment used.
Often, the place chosen for the chimney to be erected would also be a sign of the owner’s presence and kindness. The chimney occupied a prominent position in the house and, when placed above the kitchen, was taken as a sign that the house would always have many visitors. Generally, the more functional chimneys would be positioned above meal areas.
In addition to the Tavira area, other places where you can see some of the most typical chimneys are Martinlongo and Monchique, in the more inland part of the Algarve. A symbol of popular art and with a history dating back hundreds of years, the Algarve’s chimneys are the pride of the region and a reason for visitors to photograph and take pleasure in a feature that is characteristic of this part of the country.
Suggestion: Why not make an album of the photos of chimneys that you take during your stay?