The Roman Ruins of Milreu, in the Faro municipality of Estoi, will celebrate European Archaeology Day with a guided tour of the archaeological excavations currently under way at the site on 12 June.
Scheduled to begin at 10am, the event forms part of the European Archaeology Day 2026 programme, which this year is themed on the topic “Archaeology in Action”. The initiative aims to bring the public closer to ongoing fieldwork, and highlight the role archaeology plays in the protection of cultural heritage.
Located just outside Estoi, around 10 kilometres north of Faro, the Roman Ruins of Milreu are widely regarded as one of the Algarve’s most important archaeological sites, and among the best-preserved testimonies to Roman occupation in southern Portugal. The site originated as a rural estate in the 1st century CE before evolving into a luxurious Roman villa complete with baths, agricultural facilities, gardens, and an elaborate temple dedicated to a water deity.
Milreu is particularly renowned for its remarkably preserved mosaics, many depicting fish and other marine motifs, as well as for its unique religious history. The temple, built in the 4th century, was later converted into a Christian church and subsequently used during the Islamic period, reflecting the succession of cultures that shaped the Algarve over the centuries.
Particular emphasis during the visit will be placed on preventive archaeology, a key discipline in safeguarding historical remains during construction works and regeneration projects.
Currently closed to visitors due to the refurbishment of its Interpretation Centre and other interventions funded through Portugal’s Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), the Roman Ruins of Milreu will exceptionally reopen for this special visit, offering participants a rare opportunity to observe the archaeological investigations first hand.
Visitors will have the chance to learn more about the methods used by archaeologists in the field and to see how new discoveries contribute to a better understanding of daily life in Roman Lusitania, when Milreu was closely linked to the prosperous Roman settlement of Ossonoba, present-day Faro.
For safety reasons, visitors must remain with the group at all times and follow the instructions provided by organisers. The use of personal protective equipment, supplied on site, will be mandatory, as will the wearing of closed-toe, comfortable footwear.
The initiative seeks to provide an insight into the often unseen work of archaeological research while raising public awareness of the importance of preserving historical and cultural heritage.
Source: Património Cultural
Photo credit: Património Cultural
