Paderne
Village in the municipality of Albufeira on the Ribeira de Quarteira with ruin of Moorish castle
- District: Faro > Municipality: Albufeira > Parish: Paderne
- Population: 3.304
- Distances: Faro Airport 38 km, Lisbon Airport 242 km
- Tourist Info: Albufeira Tourist Info
Paderne is a parish (freguesia) in the municipality (concelho) of Albufeira, located inland north of the national road EN125.
The ruins of the mighty Moorish castle Castelo de Paderne are visible from afar. This landmark is situated on top of a hill overlooking the valley of the stream the Ribeira de Quarteira. The Romans erected a fortress to protect the bridge of the via lusitanorum, a place of strategic importance.
During the 8th century the Moorish castle was erected as part of a system of fortifications to protect the region against Christian troops coming from the north, probably on the foundations of the former Roman construction.
Paderne, originally located inside the castle, was rebuilt after the earth quake of 1755 on the plain some kilometers to the north.
A pleasant hiking trail goes from the entrance of Paderne to the castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views. The way continues along the Ribeira de Quarteira to the so called Roman Bridge and a water mill.
