Algarvia
(most common name)

(local/other name):
• Raça Bovina Algarvia

The Algarvia originated in the region of Algarve in southern Portugal.

As recently as the 1950s, the Algarvia was considered a subtype of the Transtagana. However, authorities eventually decided that the Algarvia was a separate breed. Over time it was used for extensive crossbreeding with the Limousin and Charolais (with the crossbreds eventually named Chamusco) — hence the Algarvia was declared extinct by 1980.

However, in 2010, genetic analysis proved that breeders had kept enough of the Algarvia population alive to revive the breed. A herdbook was started and a tiny herd exists as of 2016.

This page was last updated on: 2023-06-06

You can also go to:

My Daily Cow® Portugal and read about other Portuguese cattle breeds.

The Cow Wall® A-Z Cattle Breed Picture Reference to see other breeds of cattle in the world.