Nestled in the enchanting region of Alentejo, Évora stands as a timeless city adorned with UNESCO recognition, honoring its profound Roman and medieval heritage.

Évora experienced its pinnacle during the 15th century when it became the chosen residence of Portugal’s monarchs. Even today, the city’s streets bear witness to the grandeur that once welcomed nobility half a millennium ago.

The Romans were the original settlers of this captivating town, erecting its defensive walls and leaving behind the remnants of a majestic temple.

In addition to its historical significance, Évora boasts the distinction of being home to the second oldest university in the country, a venerable cathedral, a multitude of churches, and a chapel adorned entirely with human bones.

Lastly, the Neolithic monuments at Almendres and Zambujeiro serve as a testament to the presence of civilization in this region long before the Roman era.

Évora Roman Temple: Portugal’s Magnificent Ancient Monument

Perched atop the highest point of Évora, where the city’s ancient forum once thrived, stands what is perhaps Portugal’s most remarkable Roman structure.

This Corinthian temple, constructed in the 1st century, is believed to have been dedicated to Diana, the goddess of hunting.

Upon closer inspection, one will notice the contrasting materials used: the columns, adorned with flutes, are crafted from granite, while the marble bases and capitals were transported from Estremoz, approximately 40 kilometers northeast of Évora.

Remarkably preserved, this monument owes its survival to being repurposed as a small fortress during the medieval era. In the 1870s, it was carefully restored to its former glory.

Évora Cathedral: A Majestic Landmark atop the Town

Dominating the skyline of Évora, the commanding pink granite cathedral stands at the town’s highest point, characterized by its sturdy towers crowned with conical spires.

Built in multiple stages starting from the early 13th century, the cathedral showcases an amalgamation of architectural styles. Within its walls, one can explore the cavernous Gothic nave, the delicate vaulting of the Manueline choir, and the Baroque chapels.

The monument is fully accessible to visitors, inviting them to venture onto the rooftop terrace to admire the panoramic view of Évora or wander through the Gothic cloisters, adorned with orange trees in their peaceful garden. Additionally, a small museum within the cathedral houses a gleaming collection of liturgical gold and silverwork.

Museu de Évora: A Treasury of History

Housed within the former episcopal palace, dating back to the 16th century, Évora’s museum boasts an extensive collection of approximately 20,000 artifacts, all of which offer insights into the city’s rich history.

Visitors can marvel at a diverse range of exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, furniture, textiles, goldsmithing, and ceramics.

Of particular importance is the obligatory display of the polyptych, consisting of 19 panels that once adorned the cathedral’s altar. Created in Bruges at the turn of the 16th century, this masterpiece depicts scenes from the life of Mary and the Passion.

The museum also offers a wealth of captivating paintings, notably Renaissance works by Francisco Henriques, a Flemish artist renowned in Portugal, and Gregório Lopes, the esteemed court painter of King Manuel I.

Évora University: A Historic Seat of Learning

Évora is home to Portugal’s second-oldest university, established in the 16th century through the joint efforts of Pope Paul IV and the future King Henry I, who held the position of cardinal at the time.

Initially founded as a Jesuit college, it thrived under this order for two centuries until the expulsion of the Jesuits from Portugal in the 1750s.

While exploring the university, take the time to admire the graceful arcades and galleries of the main courtyard. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the classrooms, adorned with azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles) that reflect the respective fields of study. You may come across depictions of Aristotle instructing Alexander the Great or Plato enlightening his followers.

Historic Centre: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Évora encompasses the entire old town within its ancient city walls, leading up to the grandeur of the Cathedral and Roman Temple.

If your idea of a perfect afternoon involves aimless exploration and stumbling upon picturesque moments for photography, the old part of Évora will capture your heart. The maze-like streets and elongated squares are adorned with whitewashed houses featuring charming wrought iron balconies and delightful azulejos. Most of these architectural treasures date from the 15th to 17th centuries, providing a glimpse into the time when Évora was a favored residence of royalty.

During this era, Portugal was extending its influence to the New World, and Évora’s architecture had a significant impact on the development of Brazilian architecture.

Noble Houses: Eminent Residences of Évora

As you meander through the streets, you will come across numerous distinguished houses, a testament to the presence of Portuguese kings and nobility in Évora during the 15th and 16th centuries.

One notable example is the Paço dos Duques de Cadaval, featuring towers that are integrated into the city walls. Inside, you can explore lavishly decorated interiors adorned with period furniture and paintings.

The Paço dos Condes de Basto, attached to the Roman walls, stands out for its loggia and Moorish-inspired horseshoe window arches.

Casa Garcia de Resende is easily recognizable by its Manueline stonework, dating back to the early 16th century, adorning its main window. Meanwhile, Casa Soure boasts an arcaded gallery crowned by a striking white conical spire.

In Évora, every step through history leads to the discovery of remarkable landmarks and architectural gems that bear witness to its illustrious past.

Praça do Giraldo: Évora’s Historic Main Square

Constructed in the 16th century, Praça do Giraldo serves as Évora’s central square, witnessing significant events throughout history. During this time, it was the site of the Spanish Inquisition court, where numerous brutal sentences were handed down.

Among its notable features is the magnificent marble Fonte Henrique, occupying the same location as an earlier 16th-century fountain built to commemorate the Agua Prata aqueduct. The fountain boasts eight spouts, each representing one of the streets that branch off from the square.

On the northern side of the square, the striking facade of the Church of Santo Antão demands attention, while the entire eastern side is adorned with a continuous arcade, concealing charming cafes and specialty shops.

Capela dos Ossos: The Chapel of Bones

Attached to the Church of São Francisco, the Capela dos Ossos is not for the faint of heart. It serves as an ossuary, with walls, arches, and pillars adorned with bones and skulls, arranged in a somewhat cheerful manner.

These macabre decorations comprise the remains of several thousand monks, gathered from various crypts and cemeteries during the 16th century. Built during the fervor of the Counter-Reformation, the intention of this Franciscan chapel was to remind worshippers of the ephemeral nature of life. At the entrance, an inscription in Latin unequivocally conveys this message: “We bones, that are here, await yours.”

Church of São Francisco: A Royal Place of Worship

The Church of São Francisco, which houses the Capela dos Ossos, is another notable attraction that should not be missed, particularly considering its significance as a place of worship for royalty.

The portal of the church, sculpted in the Manueline style during the early 1500s, vividly reflects its royal associations. Among the intricate decorations are an armillary sphere, symbolizing King Manuel I, and a pelican, representing King John II. The church’s nave impresses with its monumental proportions, boasting the largest interior of its kind in Portugal. Make sure to cast your gaze upon the groin vaults adorning the ceiling.

An intriguing aspect of the choir is that the opposing stalls were crafted during different periods. The stalls on the right exhibit Renaissance influences from the 16th century, while those on the left showcase Baroque elements from the 17th century.