This central square and heart of Évora is the Praça do Giraldo that has been the stage for the most important secular and religious celebrations for centuries. The rectangular square, once the place of executions during the inquisition, is now home to more palatable pastimes. The cafés located in the square make an ideal spot to leisurely admire some of the most impressive examples of gothic and Romanesque architecture on the Iberian Peninsula. At one end is the ornate Henriquina Fountain, the original termination of the "silver water" aqueduct, and the 16th century Igreja de Anton Church.

Évora Cathedral (Sé)

Soon after Évora fell into Christian hands in 1166 work began on a cathedral dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The original construction was completed in 1204 but was enlarged around 1280-1340 and inheriting early gothic styling. Further additions were made over time adding to the mixing pot of styles. The impressive cloisters were added in the 14th century, the Manueline chapel of Esporão in the 16th century and the magnificent baroque main chapel in the 18th century. The main façade exerts a defensive stance over those who approach with its large asymmetrical 16th-century towers. Twelve huge statues of the apostles are much more welcoming, they've occupied the main portal since the 1330s and are rare masterpieces of Portuguese Gothic art.

The perspective of the tall walls, pillars and long nave of the interior is accentuated by the use of white mortar. The floor plan takes the shape of a Latin cross with large Gothic-styled rose windows illuminating the transepts. The crossing of the aisles is topped by a dome, supported by pendentives, and an octagonal lantern. A large 15th-century Baroque altar with a polychrome Gothic statue of a pregnant Virgin Mary takes her place in the middle of the central nave. Facing her as if taking guard is a polychrome 16th-century Renaissance statue of the Archangel Gabriel attributed to Olivier of Ghent.
Largo do Marquês de Marialva, 7000 Evora. | 38º 34' 18.3" N | 07º 54" 25.2" W.

Largo das Portas de Moura

Close to one of the original gates to the town, just southeast of the cathedral is this small square with an interesting Renaissance fountain as its centrepiece. Constructed in 1556 and designed by Diogo de Torralva, it symbolises the dawn of the age of discovery. The fountain is a globe surmounted by a marble basin. The square is surrounded by Moorish-style architecture and on the south side of the square stands the Casa Cordovil, an elegant 16th-century Manueline-style palace.

Roman Temple of Évora

This roman structure, often referred to as the Temple of Diana from a 17th-century legend, dates from around the first century AD. It's more likely the temple was built in homage to Cesar Augustus. During and following his reign he was venerated as a god. Today, fourteen remaining Corinthian columns stand on a three-metre high granite podium.

During the Visigoth era, the temple was partially destroyed. Later in the middle ages, it was incorporated into a defensive tower. A more macabre use of the monument transpired during the inquisition when it became the centre for executions and then in later times a slaughterhouse.

Modern archaeological investigations commenced in 1986 and a serious undertaking to understand the site finally gained its deserved respect. At the time of its conception, it would have dominated the apex of Évora's hill and had a commanding view over the Roman aqueduct and the surrounding countryside. The digs discovered the temple once was positioned centrepiece in a large forum lined with large marble slabs.
Largo do Marquês de Marialva, 7000-863 Evora. | 38º 34'21.6" N | 07º 54" 26.7" W.

Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones)

Adjoining the south aisle of the Igreja Real de Sao Francisco church is the Capela dos Ossos, a 17th C. charnel house. Those of a more sensitive disposition might think twice before venturing inside. The walls are formed by carefully arranged layers of thousands of human bones. The macabre effect is heightened by the skeleton of a man and a child hanging from a wall. To top it all the motto over the door reads "our bones that lie within are waiting for yours to join them".

The frescos that decorate the vaulted ceiling, dating from 1810, present a variety of symbols illustrated by biblical scenes and others with the instruments of the Passion of Christ. As you leave the chapel, a panel of tiles by the architect Siza Vieira oncthe neighbouring wall contrasts an allusion to death with the miracle of life.

Daily: 09h00 – 18h30 | FREE
1º de Maio 4, 7000-650 Évora, Portugal. | 38° 34' 07.3" N | 07° 54' 32.2" W
+351 266 704 521 | info@igrejadesaofrancisco.pt | Website

The Cromeleque dos Almendres is Portugal's largest Megalithic complex and spectacular conjunction of 95 monoliths some of which display engravings that are geometrical or astral in character. The site consists of several megalithic structures from cromlechs (in Iberia this term refers to stone circles) and menhir stones. Although many aspects of the stones are enigmatic, theories suggest astral cults and celestial alignments. Recent excavations indicate many of the monoliths are not now in their original positions and that the monument dates from between the Neolithic and the Chalcolithic ages (c. 3000 - 4000 BC).

Surrounded by lush "montado" (cork oaks and pasture), it affords an excellent view of the City of Évora. The site is located just off the main road from Écora to Montemor-o-Novo, near the village of Guadalupe. The individual sites are connected via a pedestrian trail.
Nossa Sra. de Guadalupe, Portugal. | 38° 33′ 26.91″ N | 08° 03′ 40.03″ W

Ebora Megalithica guided tours

The best way to experience the pre-historic sights around Évora is to join a tour organised by this archaeology based company. The insightful three-hour tour includes visits to three different sights, the Menhir of Almendres, the Cromlech of Almendres stone circle and the Dolmen of Zambujeiro. Your guides are Mario and Katarina, who are very dedicated to their work and their passion for the subject is infectious.
Morning: 10h00 - 12h30, Afternoon: 14h30 - 17h00 | Adult: €30.00, Child: €15.00
+351 964 808 337 | eboramegalithica@gmail.com | Website

Way back at the tail end of the 19th century Évora was enjoying unimaginable fame, regarded as one of the most attractive and admired sub-regions in the Alentejo, birthplace of the region's most coveted wines. However, firstly phylloxera and then the wheat-growing campaign of the Estado Novo almost put an end to vineyards in the sub-region, forcing Évora into oblivion.

There it languished until the end of the 1980s when Évora underwent a renaissance, as the province capital and integral part of central Alentejo. The hot, dry countryside is dominated by non-calcareous grey Mediterranean soil, which produces some of the Alentejo's most prestigious wines.

Cartuxa

Just out of the centre of Évora set in beautiful surroundings this much loved winemaker offer tours and a range of tasting options. Located in a former monastery, the tour is an insightful look into Cartuxa's long history as being one of Alentejo's most prestigious wine lable.

Visiting Hours: 10h30, 11h30, 15h00, & 16h30
Quinta de Valbom, Estrada da Soeira, 7005-003 Évora, Portugal.
38° 32' 39.7" N | 07° 52' 07.9" W | +351 266 748 383
enoturismo.cartuxa@fea.pt | Website

Dona Dorinda

Following traditions that date back thousands of years Dona Dorinda pride themselves in producing organic wines using Biodynamic principals. Using thoughtful husbandry of the land and consideration to the wildlife that inhabit the estate. Dona Dorinda Organic Wines are sold at restaurants and hotels in the Lisbon and Evora area and by visiting our vineyard near the ancient city of Evora. Their tour demonstrates their organic wine making techniques and a loverly day out on their beautiful farm. Visits are by appointment only.

Daily: 10h00 – 18h00
Quinta Nossa Senhora da Conceição, Estrada de Arraiolos 7000-744 Évora - Portugal.
38° 35' 00.9" N | 07° 55' 34.3" W | +351 967 603 099
reservas@donadorinda.com | Website

Fitapreta Vinhos

Fitapreta produces wines that reflect the character of Alentejo. Located within a 14th century mansion house amongst the vines, cork oaks and olive trees. Their objective is to make the most of what the land can offer. A dual focus on tradition and pushing new techniques. The guides are welcoming and friendly, tours feel personal and groups are kept small.

Daily: 09h30 - 18h30
Paço do Morgado de Oliveira, Estrada M527 km10, 7000-016 Évora, Portugal.
38° 38' 43.4" N | 07° 57' 13.3" W | +351 918 982 615
enoturismo@fitapreta.com | Website