Written by: Robin Wilding

Faro, a small city in the territory of Algarve, Portugal, is home to around 50,000 inhabitants. This chameleon of history has known many names and influences. Originally named Ossonoba when occupied by the Romans, the city held an important role for Roman territory as the most important town on the whole peninsula. In the old parts of Faro one can still see the 8th century Roman architecture. Later, in the 8th century Ossonoba retained its importance as an the most important port on the peninsula under Moorish rule. For a short time in the 9th century, Ossonoba was put under rule of a small princedom and the name was changed to Santa Maria. Under Muslim rule the town's name was changed to Harun, which is said to be where the current name of Faro was derived from.

In 1956 the Earl of Essex raided the town, but the name was not changed.

Under Portuguese rule, not only did the town retain its name, but also gained in importance. As the importance of neighboring town Silves was in decline, Faro usurped the role of administration in the region. With this new found role of Administer to the local region, Faro grew to power as a hub in the peninsula.

Faro was a town late to bloom throughout the centuries due to its location far south in Portugal, which made it difficult to access without modern methods of transportation. This lack of access is why Faro was in one of the last territories to be conquered by the Moors led by the Portuguese king in 1292. Remnants of this era of rule can still be recognized in the local architecture , especially in the terraces, chimneys and white washed buildings.

Since that era, it has still been known as a center of administration in the area, however in addition, the fertile land in Faro has been used to grow figs, oranges and almonds. In more recent history the area has become an up-and-coming tourist destination in Southern Portugal.  Tourists flock to the area to enjoy the beautiful beaches, golf courses, locally grown food, cliffs and grottoes. Faro is also home to many sports arena, as the climate is prime for outdoor matches.  Faro was home to one of the venues of the 2004 European Football Championship.