In the Algarve, the true wealth lies not only in the landscapes or beaches, but also in the age-old knowledge passed down from grandparents to younger generations. These traditional skills help preserve products and crafts that shape our identity, keeping alive practices that have withstood the test of time and change.

Among the Algarve’s greatest treasures are fig cheese, palm-leaf basketry, marzipan sweets, and the scissor chair.
Each of these items tells a story of experienced hands, of gestures repeated year after year and handed down through the generations. It’s in this connection between past and present that Algarve culture finds its strength, honouring everything made with heart and know-how.

Take fig cheese, for example — a much-loved sweet in these parts. Making it requires certain virtues, such as patience and know-how. It begins with crushing ripe figs, which are then mixed with toasted ground almonds, honey, and a pinch of cinnamon. The mixture is shaped into small rounds and left to dry in the sun, gaining a firm texture and a distinctive flavour.

Another fascinating craft is palm-leaf weaving, where palm fronds are transformed into baskets, hats, and much more. Learning this art takes time, perseverance, and the guidance of those who’ve practised it for decades. From gathering the leaves to drying and weaving them, every step is done with care and precision — the result is a vital part of local craftsmanship.

The doce fino, is another charming tradition, of Arab origin, made from almond paste and filled with egg threads and sometimes egg jam. Often found at special occasions, it symbolises the richness and sweetness of our confectionery.

And last but by no means least, the cadeira tesoura, or scissor chair — a traditional piece from Monchique — blends skilled craftsmanship with simple, functional design that defines the Algarve’s antique furniture. Its construction involves carpentry techniques handed down from grandparents to grandchildren, ensuring these pieces continue to be made with the same care and quality.

Keeping these traditions alive is about more than simply preserving the past — it’s about celebrating the deep bond between generations, our culture, and Algarve identity. It’s an invitation to discover, experience, and value the very best the Algarve has to offer: a legacy shaped by wise hands and devoted hearts.

At Mar d’Estórias, we help preserve and share this legacy: discover some of these treasures in our shop.