Faro, the administrative capital of the Algarve, is rich in natural and cultural heritage and invites you to discover it. The pre-Roman city called Ossónoba was one of the most important urban centers in the south of the Iberian Peninsula. Today, due to its location, as well as being the capital, Faro has the most important infrastructure and public services in the Algarve region. The local gastronomy, based on shellfish from the Ria Formosa, is unique and one of the best in the country. Faro's charming historic center is surrounded by ancient city walls and contains a Gothic cathedral. Outside the city walls is a modern center with pedestrian shopping streets, scenic squares and a variety of restaurants and bars. South of Faro is the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a series of saltwater lagoons and mudflats that are a haven for migratory birds and wildlife. Along the sea side of the Ria Formosa are three sandbar islands, location of Faro's pristine beaches.