About Monchique

Monchique is a municipality in the district of Portimão, Algarve, Portugal. The population in 2011 was 9,831, in an area of 269.60 km². It is located about 25 km inland from the coast, in the Serra de Monchique mountain range. The highest point in the Algarve, at 803 metres (2,635 ft), is in the Monchique municipality, on the site of the old fortification known as Castelo do Mouro. The Municipality of Monchique includes the freguesias of Alferce, Foia, Monchique, Riachão and Caldas de Monchique. The town of Monchique has a long history and was an important centre in Roman times. It was known as Mons Cicus during that period. The name Monchique may be derived from the Latin monachus, meaning "monk", referring to the many monks who inhabited the region in early times. The area around Monchique was invaded by the Moors in the 8th century. They built a castle on the top of the hill known as the Castelo do Mouro. The Moors were expelled from Monchique in 1249 by Afonso III of Portugal. The municipality of Monchique was created in 1836. The town of Monchique is a typical example of a Portuguese mountain village. It is built on the slopes of the Monchique mountains and has many narrow streets and small houses. The main economic activities in Monchique are tourism and agriculture. The municipality is famous for its production of cork, honey and fruit. Monchique has a mild climate all year round. This, combined with its scenic beauty, makes it a popular tourist destination. There are many places of interest in Monchique and the surrounding area. These include the Monchique baths, the Monchique museum, the Monchique parish church and the Nossa Senhora do Desterro sanctuary. If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the countryside, then Monchique is the perfect destination.