Paderne Castle will once again be the chosen backdrop for one of the most beautiful astronomical spectacles – the Perseid meteor shower.
This phenomenon occurs when small dust particles enter the Earth’s atmosphere at high speed, producing a luminous trail that seems to light up between the stars, creating what we commonly call “shooting stars”.
Despite the scientific explanation, this moment remains closely linked to supernatural fascination. Many folk traditions associate meteors with wishes and omens. For this reason, the Perseids are also known as “tears of Saint Lawrence,” in honour of the saint celebrated on August 10.
In Albufeira, as in previous years, this is once again a special occasion. Far from the city’s bright lights, deep within the Algarve’s Barrocal, the “Astronomical Observation – Perseids 2025” takes place. The event, organised by Albufeira City Hall through the Municipal Museum of Archaeology, is scheduled for August 13, from 20:30 to midnight, and promises an enjoyable evening where science and culture come together.
This year, astronomer Oleh Malyi, a member of the European Southern Observatory, will again be present and, using a high-precision telescope, will guide participants through the celestial spheres, exploring planets, stars, and other cosmic mysteries.
The programme also features a musical performance at 21:30 in the Castle Chapel by Duo Symbiosis. Founded in 2014, the group, consisting of Lilia Donkova and Gonçalo Pescada, combines two very different instruments in a unique performance: the violin, which has strong ties to classical music, and the accordion, rooted more in folklore.
It is worth noting that Lilia Donkova is one of the most respected artists in the country. She is a member of the Cascais and Oeiras Chamber Orchestra and, from a young age, has received awards and scholarships recognising her talent.
Gonçalo Pescada, who holds a PhD in Music and Musicology, is one of Portugal’s most distinguished accordionists, with a notable academic and professional career. He currently leads the Music Department at the University of Évora and is a researcher at CESEM – Centre for Studies in Sociology and Musical Aesthetics.
