Norman Darlo
Silves, just a few miles inland from the coast of the Algarve, is now a quiet dusty town. But once upon a time, it was the capital of the region. A thousand years ago, under the rule of the Moors, it was called Shilb. In those days it was so famous it became known as The Baghdad of the West.
I visited there recently. Here are some monochrome photos of Silves Cathedral (formerly the Great Mosque) and Moorish castle. Please upvote your favourites 🙂
It was the Moorish governor of Shilb who starred in my true romantic tale of the Prince and the Washerwoman: An 11th Century Love Story from al-Andalus. For those who prefer full colour, I’ll soon be uploading more pics of this trip.
#1 Strong sunlight, sharp shadows
Look at the striking shadows cast by the intense winter sun on the wall of a house near the castle.
#2 Silves Cathedral
Silves Cathedral was built as a mosque during the Moorish rule of Iberia and later converted into a cathedral after the Reconquista.
#3 The Castle of Silves
#4 The Palace of Balconies
#5 A view of the Cathedral from the Castle Ramparts
As you can see, Silves is a hilly town. The views from atop the castle walls are breathtaking, and all areas of the ramparts are publicly accessible.
I love shadows and lights
Beautiful shot! I love it
Indeed, I like the shadows!