The region Albufeira resides, is known as the Algarve.  In much earlier years i.e., 700`s AD, it was known as the Al-Gharb, controlled by the Moors or people of Arabic descent.  The land was rich in every means, fertile grounds, warmth throughout the year, and a destination for curious travelers from lands as far north as Norway.  During this time, as history would like for us to believe, an Arab King named Ibn-Almundim, met Gilda, a beautiful Nordic Princess who was vacationing in the Al-Gharb.  They fell deeply in love and after a short courtship, they married. Princess Gilda became King Ibn-Almundim`s Queen.  They lived in an enchanted castle inland of the sea but within the borders of the Al-Gharb.  Rolling landscape filled with various fruit trees and vineyards created their picturesque estate.  

 

Life was wonderful and the King and Queen were very happy. Some years passed and the Queen showed signs of sadness.  She was no longer interested in going out into the meadows and singing, as she would pick fruit and gather grapes.  The Queen had become unhappy.  King Ibn-Almundim was saddened and concerned.  What could be the cause?  Queen Gilda had everything, or so he thought.  He was advised by the Queen`s handmaiden that the Queen missed her countryside.  Although she was very grateful for such beautiful and wonderful surroundings, a portion of her heart yearned for the landscape she grew up in, especially the snows of winter.  The King loved his Queen very much.  After considerable thought, he came up with an idea.  The King instructed his guards to plant almond trees from the steps of his castle reaching out as far as the eyes could see.  This was to be done throughout the estate so when finished, all one could see would be almond trees.  During this planting of trees, Queen Gilda never knew, as she kept the windows of her sanctuary closed and refused to venture out of the castle during this time of sadness.

Little time passed, the trees had taken root, and the season to witness their blossoms arrived.  It was a glorious morning, the sun was offering its warmth and climbing.  The King was overwhelmed with joy and couldn`t wait to greet his Queen.  Eyes filled with tears and a smile trembling with love and enthusiasm, King Ibn-Almundim entered the Queen’s bedroom, thrust open the boarded windows and exclaimed, ``My love, look what I have brought you!``  Gazing out, Queen Gilda saw hundreds of almond trees that blossomed, kissing the land with their white, snow-like petals and providing a landscape akin to her homeland.  

The King and Queen lived happily ever after.

 
an almond petal
dressed as snow in the Algarve-
brought eternal love