Large crowds flock to Salir for Roman festival – Portugal Resident

The village of Salir, in the hills north of Loulé, welcomed large crowds over the weekend as the 2026 edition of Salir no Tempo transformed the rural community into a bustling Roman settlement.

Dedicated this year to the Roman era, the three-day festival recreated life in the ancient Villa Romana da Torrinha, offering visitors a glimpse into everyday life nearly 2,000 years ago through historical re-enactments, traditional food and interactive experiences.

Organisers described this year’s edition as a success, citing strong visitor numbers, a lively atmosphere and a positive impact on the local economy.

More than 200 performances took place between July 17 and 19, featuring around 100 performers who brought Roman history to life through gladiator contests, chariot races, theatrical performances, living statues and period dance.

Visitors were also able to sample Roman-inspired cuisine, including game meats, cider, mead, cured foods, bread and olives served at food stalls throughout the festival grounds.

Several themed areas recreated iconic elements of Roman civilisation, including a Roman market, educational spaces and replicas of historical siege engines, allowing visitors of all ages to learn about daily life, justice and military technology in Ancient Rome.

One of the festival’s biggest attractions was the Circus Maximus, where an arena hosted chariot races and equestrian demonstrations inspired by the spectacles of Ancient Rome.

Another new addition was The Treasure of the Villa, a theatrical production inspired by archaeological discoveries in Salir, highlighting the area’s Roman heritage through stories centred on fine pottery, olive oil production and the nearby Villa da Torrinha.

Visitors could also explore the Roman Baths Tent, where actors demonstrated the customs and rituals associated with bathing and wellbeing during the Roman period.

The Municipal Council of Loulé said the event forms part of its strategy to promote the cultural heritage of the municipality’s inland communities while helping to boost tourism and local businesses.

Mayor Telmo Pinto said the event has become “a living affirmation of the identity, culture and historical legacy of the municipality’s interior”, while also helping position Salir as a distinctive cultural tourism destination in the Algarve.