Medieval Évora - A Day Trip to an UNESCO Site

Évora Highlights – The well preserved old town has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 and is still partially enclosed with medieval walls. Several Monuments, Churches and Squares can be visited during the tour: Diana's Roman Temple - Évora preserves the remains of an emblematic monument of the Roman era built in the first century A.D. in honor of Augustus. Certainly the most emblematic of this culture throughout Portugal and the undisputed ex-libris of the town. The Roman Temple is situated at the highest point of the town – fantastic view over the surrounding area.

The Cathedral of Évora - One of the oldest and most important local monuments, inspired in the Cathedral of Lisbon - a Romanesque-Gothic granite building (1283 to 1308) The main altar is a Baroque style of the 18th century. You can climb up to the roof of the largest Portuguese cathedral and enjoy a unique view of the town and countryside. Back those days, definitely giving a clear sign that Christians were back in charge in this town.

The Church of S. Francisco and the Chapel of Bones – The unique nave of this church, which is dominated by a huge stone vault, is a masterpiece of Portuguese Gothic. Dating from the 16th century, the chapel is decorated with bones from the many cemeteries that used to surround the city, which were lifted to allow for more construction area - the walls consist of human skulls and bones. A place where the monks used to meditate on death... also to show us how frail we are! We will continue by visiting some local Artisans – Looking for unique souvenirs? The best handicraft shops to pick from in Évora’s streets. Praça do Giraldo – this square was a place of festivities, processions or bullfights. It was the public square par excellence and still one of the most important with its cafés, shops and its refreshing fountain from 1571.