The CCDR Algarve explained that Loulé Council also intends for Salir Castle, in the parish of Salir, to obtain the degree of public interest.

The ultimate goal of the classification proposal is the “public appropriation of this heritage asset and the enhancement of its cultural and identity values, given that it constitutes a testament to the medieval Islamic and medieval Christian architectural heritage, in the category of defensive architecture”, according to the Loulé Council, cited by the CCDR.

The note mentions that the military building was conquered by Paio Peres Correia, master of the Order of Santiago, after the capture of the city of Tavira and other castles on the coast, between 1248 and 1249.

According to the CCDR, the importance of the site was attested by archaeological research work, carried out since 1987, under the scientific responsibility of Professor Helena Catarino.

“The archaeological research work carried out revealed a very dense urban network, with structures belonging to six houses and two streets having been identified”, according to the description provided.

These houses were in use during the 12th and 13th centuries and were abandoned after the Christian conquest, according to the statement.

The CCDR explains that the process of conquering this castle was “quite hard on its population” since the remains found in the archaeological excavations show levels of violent destruction and large-scale fires.

“Having met the general criteria for assessing the application, the CCDR Algarve proposed to Património Cultural, I.P. to open proceedings with a view to eventual classification as MIP”, concludes the organisation whose role is to promote regional development and territorial cohesion.

The ruins of the castle are located in the western part of the town, integrated into the urban area of ​​the village, on a limestone hill 256 metres high.

With the aim of enhancing the ruins, the Salir Museum was opened in 2002, where materials collected during the archaeological excavation work are on display.