Museu Municipal de Faro (Paço Episcopal)

About

Quick facts: Narrow stairways and cloistered courtyards lead you through Roman mosaics, medieval sculptures and Baroque religious art, all packed into surprisingly compact galleries. Quiet rooms display amphora shards, funerary stelae and mosaics made of thousands of tiny tesserae that catch the light and reward a slow glance.

Highlights: Under a vaulted ceiling a Roman mosaic made of over 3,000 tiny tesserae depicts fish and sea motifs, the blues and ochres still vivid beneath soft gallery lamps. Up a narrow flight of steps an airy bishop's chamber hides carved stone coats of arms and a small bell that guides ring at noon; the bright tone echoes through the cloister and surprises most first-time visitors.

Insider tips

• Wear comfortable shoes, many rooms have uneven stone floors and a short flight of stairs.
• Ask at reception for access to the basement Roman remains, they are sometimes closed to casual visitors.
• Head to the rooftop terrace for the best photos of the cathedral and Ria Formosa light, arrive before noon for softer light.
• Avoid midday in July and August when heat and school groups peak, visit early morning or late afternoon instead.

Practical info

Directions

Official website

More attractions in Faro

Faro Old Town (Cidade Velha)

Faro Cathedral (Sé de Faro)

Arco da Vila

Igreja do Carmo (Chapel of Bones / Capela dos Ossos)