| At about 20km to the northeast of the historic city of Silves is the charming market town of São Bartolomeu de Messines (often abbreviated to “SB Messines” or simply “Messines”). |
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| Virtually untouched by tourism and scarcely mentioned in any of the guide books, this is an excellent place to come to experience the real rustic Algarve. There is a fruit market every morning, except Sundays and many traditional bars, cafés and restaurants. The parish church dates from the 16th century, but underwent considerable restoration after the 1755 earthquake and exhibits Baroque features. |
| Also worth a visit is the João de Deus Museum, nearby. There are frequent bus services from Messines to Silves, Albufeira and Portimão. |
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