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In 1520, King D. Manuel I (1495-1521), elevated Tavira from village to city (on March 16th), due to the deeds of the knights, squires and people of this county in the wars against the kingdom of Castile and the Moors, in the North of Africa.
The 16th century is a landmark in the history of Tavira, since Tavira was of great strategic importance (as it is the closest city to North Africa, contributing to the defense of the Portuguese territories), and this is the reason why the nobility settled here. The port of this new city was also very important as it was a passing port of merchandise to Africa, attracting Jewish tradesmen. It also had a hospital, where the wounded came to be recovered from the innumerable fights in Africa. Furthermore, Tavira had a thriving shipbuilding industry.
The city had grown a lot in the previous reign, forcing it to extend beyond its walls, originating several outdoor residential areas. Hence the opening of King D. Manuel's door and the Nova door that allowed easier access outdoors.
Tavira also had, in this reign, the convent of St. Francisco, the most ancient in the Algarve, and a nunnery of the order of St. Bernard, the convent of Our Lady of Mercy. Later on, still in the 16th century, the convent of Graça would be built.
For all this, D. Manuel I elaborated a royal charter in which he elevated Tavira to the status of city, as a reward. Among all the wars, the siege of Arzila by the Moors stood out in 1508, whose defense by the Portuguese troops was prepared in Tavira.
Tavira is elevated to the status of city by King D. Manuel I, in 1520
Hurrah to the city of Tavira!!
The golden century of Tavira