Long ago, before Portugal was Portugal, the Moorish king Ibn-Almundim ruled over Chelb in the Algarve. Returning victorious from conquest, he brought many captives, including Gilda, a beautiful queen from the northern lands. Though initially content, Gilda grew increasingly sorrowful, longing deeply for snow's whiteness. Healers failed to cure her sadness until, advised by a mysterious woman, the king filled the valley with blooming almond trees. When Gilda saw the valley blanketed in white blossoms, her joy returned.Ever since, the Algarve remains the kingdom of almond blossoms, guardian of this ancient tale.