The Silves Medieval Fair began in 1996, organised by Silves Secondary School. In 2004, the Municipality celebrated the 500th anniversary of the Manueline Charter with the “Quinhentista Fair”. Since 2005, the event has been organised by the Municipality, growing remarkably and transforming Silves every August into a medieval setting.

Nationally recognised for its authenticity, it celebrates this year its 20th edition, from 8 to 16 August, under the theme “Xilb, the Final Conquest”,  a fun moment for family and friends where everyone can be part of history from centuries ago, recreating Moorish and Christian traditions throughout the fairgrounds, inside and outside the castle, as well as in Silves’ historic centre.

This year’s programme recreates the events of 1189, when the forces of King Sancho I, supported by the Crusaders, besieged and conquered Xilb (Silves) from the Almohad Caliphate. Over nine days, the city relives moments of tension, resistance, and cultural transformation, immersing the public in a unique historical experience.

Visitors can see and experience veiled dancers, snake charmers, jugglers, acrobats, fire performances, and nobles and ladies dressed in their finest garments. In addition, throughout the fair there are numerous stalls, artisans, traditional and regional food and drink vendors, and pottery displays.

Daily Events

- 6:00pm – Opening of the Medieval Fair – Parade through the streets with the members of the suburbs.

- 06:15pm – Welcome by the Vizier of Muxamat Xelb (Praça Al-Mutamid).

- 06:30pm – Call to Prayer by Al-Muazzin (Silves Castle).

- 07:00pm – From Al-Andalus to Persia of Rum – Sensory and contemplative music recital (Silves Cathedral).

- 09:00pm & 10:00pm – Xilb, The Blades of the Reconquest – Duel and conquest show (Praça Al-Mutamid).

- 09:30pm & 11:00pm – Xilb, The Final Conquest – Immersive show (Silves Castle).

Re-enactment and Entertainment Groups

- Music: Al Folk, Alhambra, Alimorante, Cláudio Quadros, Zahirah Azhar, Zahra.

- Dance: Arsul, Al-Kitara, Vells Celtes, Emad Selim.

- Music & Dance: Al Caravan, Raks Al Zahra, Aurel Ensemble.

- Street Entertainment: Teatro Despenteados, Tambores Malatitsch, Cavaleiros do Tempo, Cia Corporeus.

- Historical Re-enactment: Cavaleiros do Tempo, Compa Scura, Boiça.

Experiences & Atmosphere

- Medieval market with artisans, merchants, and master craftsmen.

- Tournaments and combat demonstrations.

- Music, dance, and theatre throughout the city.

- Gastronomy inspired by medieval recipes.

- Activities for families and children.

Prices: Daily tickets from €2. Costume rentals available for €3 (adults) / €2 (children), along with other participatory activities.

Parking: Arrive early to find parking on the outskirts and walk to the city, as the streets will be closed to traffic.

For more information visit the official website (unfortunately only in Portuguese)