The Reconquista was the re-taking of the Iberian Peninsula from the Moors and lasted from the 8th to the 15th century. During the reign of the Moors, the region in the southwest corner of Iberia was named Gharb al -Andalus -- West Iberia. When the area was retaken in the 13th century, the name Algarve stuck. As a matter of fact, most Spanish names that begin with al- are Arabic in origin. Our interest in the Algarve was a combination of our delight in the country of Portugal and our curiousity in a place known to be sunny, beautiful, and expat-friendly. The place did not disappoint!