The Seven Wonders of Portugal aims to distinguish and promote cultural marvels in Portugal.
Battling it out with Paderne (Albufeira) for the title of most wondrous village is the medieval village of Sistelo, in Arcos de Valdavez, in northern Portugal.
The two finalists were shortlisted from a list of seven picturesque rural villages, which included Alegrete, Cachopo, Casal de S. Simão, Faial and Manhouce.
A total of 49 villages are in the running, divided into seven different categories: Riverside, Monuments, Seaside, Rural, Remote, Authentic, and in Protected Areas.
Two finalists are chosen from each category, with the finals gala taking place on 3 September in Piódão, Arganil.
The head of the Algarve’s Regional Tourism Board (RTA) congratulated Paderne on its achievement, saying “it is recognition of the beautiful landscape and historical and architectural heritage of the village in Albufeira, as well as of the touristic diversity of the region.”