Lagos, Portugal

Lagos is a coastal city in Portugal, whose name means "lakes" in Portuguese. The city is located in the far western Algarve region, on the south coast of the country. The municipality of Lagos includes the urban area of the city, as well as the rural areas and beaches of Meia Praia, Ponta da Piedade, and Porto de Mos. Lagos was first settled by the Phoenicians, and later occupied by the Carthaginians. The city was then taken by the Romans, who called it Lacobriga. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the city was conquered by the Visigoths. In 716, the Moors invaded and took control of the city, renaming it Zawa. The Moors held control of the city until the 13th century, when it was reconquered by the Christians. Lagos became an important city during the Age of Discoveries, as it was the departure point for many voyages to the New World. The city is also home to a number of historical landmarks, such as the 16th-century fort of Sí£o Joí£o Baptista, the Church of Santa Maria da Conceizí£o, and the Lagos Castle. Today, Lagos is a popular tourist destination, with its beaches, history, and culture. The city is also a hub for water sports, such as surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.