For centuries, Algarve’s cartography recorded the existence of a mysterious island that suddenly disappeared from the maps and fell into oblivion. This former Algarve Island, known as Dog Island, was inhabited by fishermen, lepers, smugglers and the faithful Portuguese water dogs, according to Vortexmag, quoted by. Although its current whereabouts are uncertain, the legend of Algarve Island remains alive in collective memory.
Dog Island appeared cartographic near Cape Santa Maria, in the far south of Portugal. Some researchers believe that the island may have been part of one of Ria Formosa’s current barrier islands, a dynamic ecosystem and constantly changing due to the action of tides and winds. The strength of the ocean and these natural changes may have been decisive for the disappearance of the island of cartographic records.
The 1755 earthquake, followed by a devastating tidal tidal, significantly changed the Algarve coastline. Some theories suggest that this natural disaster may have completely destroyed the island or modified its form, making it unrecognizable. This phenomenon was responsible for profound geographical changes in the region, also affecting fortifications and other coastal structures.
Refuge of patients and isolated
The human presence on Dog Island has been documented since 1522, when it was used as a quarantine place for travelers from Arzila, suspected of bubonic plague. Its isolation made it a suitable place to contain outbreaks, leading it to be called the leper island, as it welcomed people marginalized by society due to contagious diseases.
Living on the island was a real challenge. In addition to adverse natural conditions, such as storms and sand displacement, its inhabitants also faced the threat of pirate attacks. Nevertheless, fishermen settled on the spot, building huts to support fishing. In the nineteenth century, small fishing communities began to establish themselves more permanently, giving rise to nuclei such as Culatra, which still exists today.
The origin of the name and the connection to the Portuguese water dog
The name “Island of Dogs” may be related to Portuguese water dogs, animals used by fishermen in their daily activity. These dogs were highly trained to help with Faina, performing functions such as pushing shoals to the net, recovering fallen objects to the sea and even transporting messages between boats.
The importance of these dogs was so recognized that King D. Carlos, in love with maritime activities, included two Portuguese water dogs on the Royal Yacht Amelia. During oceanographic expeditions on board, dogs demonstrated their great use and impressive sea skills.
Although the connection between the name of the Algarve Island and these animals is not fully proven, their role in Portuguese maritime culture is undeniable. The Legend of Dog Island is still involved in mystery, fascinating historians and enthusiasts of maritime history.
Where was this island?
Currently, there is no definitive proof of the exact location of the island, but it is believed that its land has been absorbed by the Ria Formosa islands, a constantly changing lagoon system. The disappearance of the island remains a riddle, but its name and its stories continue to be remembered.
Dog Island is an example of the way nature shapes landscapes and alters the course of history. Natural transformations and catastrophic events in the past remind us that Portuguese territory has a rich and mysteries history to unravel.
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