Algarvian chimneys

Published on 26th January, 2021

One thing that characterises Portugal's southern sunny Algarve, is its distinctive ornamental chimneys. 

Many of the whitewashed houses have not one, but three or four chimneys per house, each different in style. Crowned with striking tops, the openings in the sides of the chimneys appear as circles, squares, rectangles, triangles and grids in infinitely varying combinations and proportions. 

The name Algarve comes from the Arabic al-Gharb ("the west"), referring to the province's position at the western edge of the former Muslim empire. There were more than five hundred years of Muslim presence from the 8th – 13th century, so you’d be forgiven for assuming that these chimneys have a direct connection to the Arabs, especially as the minaret aspect of the chimney reveals the influence of the Arab style and Moorish influence. 

However, it is a common misconception that the chimneys date from this period, partly based on a myth which says that after the Christian reconquest, Muslims in the Algarve (who were banned from practising their religion), built small minarets on their roofs disguised as chimneys to identify themselves to other Muslims. The truth is that decorative chimneys didn’t start appearing on houses until the late-17th and early-18th centuries.

Some say it may be to do with the way the houses are painted all white. In days gone by, houses looked more or less the same, so the chimney was what made the difference - it was the signature of the owner and a statement of how wealthy he was.

An Algarvian master mason would ask "'how many days of chimney do you want?” The cost of a chimney was measured by the time it took to make it. The more delicate and difficult its construction, the more expensive it became. According to the time spent, chimneys varied from very simple shapes to others flaunting complicated, beautiful tracery, or representing miniature clock towers or houses. 

Are you looking forward to calling the Algarve home? Find out about virtual viewings from your sofa; contact our experienced Property Advisors +351 308 800 878 or 0800 014 8201 (free from the UK) or email the team on info@portugalproperty.com.

Published in: Guide to Portugal / News and Updates / Portugal Property / Portuguese Life / Property for sale in Portugal / Site News