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The International Military History Congress “A Guerra Ibérica em Contextos Meridionais (séc. IV–XVI)” brings leading scholars to Silves, in the central Algarve, for three days of talks and debate on Iberian warfare and frontiers – ideal for history lovers, students and curious visitors.
19–21 March 2026
What is “A Guerra Ibérica” in Silves?
“A Guerra Ibérica em Contextos Meridionais (séc. IV–XVI)” is an International Military History Congress held in Silves, one of the Algarve’s most historic towns. Over three days, more than twenty recognised national and international experts revisit key periods of conflict, shifting borders, military strategies and cultures of war that shaped the Iberian and Mediterranean worlds between the 4th and 16th centuries.
The congress is organised through a partnership between Silves Municipality and the Associação de História Militar, with the collaboration of the University of the Algarve and the Centre for History of the University of Lisbon. It aims to promote an interdisciplinary approach, bringing together archaeology, military history and defensive architecture to better understand how war, power and frontiers influenced society over more than a millennium.
Why visitors and expats will enjoy this event
For tourists, digital nomads and expats living in the Algarve, this congress is a rare chance to experience the region through a deeper historical lens. Silves was once a major medieval stronghold, and hearing experts discuss Iberian warfare while you are in the town itself adds an extra layer of meaning to any visit to the castle and old centre.
The event is particularly appealing if you enjoy culture, history and thoughtful travel. Sessions are aimed at researchers, students, teachers and anyone passionate about military history, but motivated amateurs and curious visitors will also find plenty to learn. It is a great way to connect with the academic community in Portugal and Spain, and to understand more about the shared past of the Iberian Peninsula.
What to expect at the A Guerra Ibérica Military History Congress
The main programme takes place at the Fissul Auditorium – the Pavilhão de Feiras e Exposições in Silves. Across the three days, you can expect:
- Presentations by more than two dozen respected specialists from Portugal, Spain and beyond.
- Panels exploring conflicts, frontiers, military strategies and cultures of war in Iberian and Mediterranean contexts.
- Discussions that link archaeology, military history and defensive architecture, with a focus on long-term social and political change.
- Opportunities to network with researchers, lecturers and fellow enthusiasts of medieval and early modern history.
On 20 March, one working session is scheduled at the Gambelas Campus of the University of the Algarve, near Faro, giving participants a chance to experience both a historic town setting and a modern university environment during the congress.
Practical information
Dates and structure
The congress runs from 19 to 21 March 2026. The core programme is hosted at the Fissul Auditorium in Silves, with an additional working session on 20 March at the University of the Algarve’s Gambelas Campus. Exact daily timetables are not specified in the available information, but you can expect activities to be spread across the three days.
Tickets and entry
Participation is free of charge, but advance registration is mandatory. To register, you need to download and complete the official registration form and then send it by email to the Silves Municipal Museum at [email protected]. The event is aimed at researchers, students, teachers and anyone with a strong interest in military history.
How to get there
Silves sits inland in the central Algarve, within easy reach of the coastal resorts between Portimão and Albufeira. It makes an excellent day trip if you are staying anywhere along the central Algarve coast. The Fissul – Pavilhão de Feiras e Exposições is located in the town, in an area commonly used for fairs and exhibitions.
If you are arriving in the Algarve by air, it is convenient to pick up a hire car at Faro Airport and drive to Silves, which is typically reached via the main east–west routes across the region. A car also makes it easier to combine the congress with visits to nearby towns and beaches; you can compare Faro Airport car hire options in advance to plan your trip.
Tips for making the most of your visit
Because the congress is content-rich and academically focused, it is worth planning your days so you can attend the sessions that interest you most and still have time to explore Silves. Bring a notebook or device for taking notes, and consider arriving a little early to get settled before each block of talks.
Silves itself is known for its castle, cathedral and atmospheric old streets, so you may want to allow extra time before or after the congress to wander the historic centre. Comfortable shoes and a light layer are useful, as March weather in the Algarve can vary from warm sunshine to cooler, breezier days.
Plan the rest of your day in the Algarve
Attending “A Guerra Ibérica” is a great excuse to discover more of the region’s culture and landscapes. You could combine the congress with a relaxed coastal afternoon or add it into a wider itinerary of things to do in the Algarve, from historic towns to scenic viewpoints and countryside drives.
Is the A Guerra Ibérica congress free to attend?
Where does the congress take place?
Who is the event aimed at?
Do I need to speak Portuguese to benefit from the event?
