Church of Sao Lourenco de Almancil

About

Built in the first half of the 18th century, this single nave church is considered one of the greatest artistic treasures in the Algarve. Inside, the walls and ceilings are covered in extraordinary examples of Portuguese azulejos. The eight panels of tiles, designed by Policarpo de Oliveira Bernardes, depict the various phases of the life of Saint Lawrence. Contrasting with the white and blue tiles, is the gilded Baroque altarpiece. The central figure of the saint is believed to be crafted by the Algarve’s greatest sculptor, Manuel Martinez.