Evora

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As a part of the Alentejo Province, and hailed as one of the most livable cities in Portugal, Evora is a delightful town that is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Distanced by about 130 kilometers from Lisbon, Evora has the stamp of different ages, and the splendidly preserved monuments happen to be one of the prime factors that catapult Evora into a top notch tourist destination.

Evora Do Giraldo Square
Evora Do Giraldo Square

The most famous of landmarks at Evora that never ceases to amaze the tourists is the Temple of Diana, which dates back to the 2nd century. It is considered as one the well-preserved Roman monuments, as the Corinthian columns that can be seen here bedazzle the spectator. The arches, whitewashed houses and the twisting alleyways reflect the Moorish influence, and if you plan to start exploring Evora, Praca do Giraldo, the main square, is the ideal place to begin your explorative stint. Dotted by cafes and shops, and the fountain found in front of Renaissance Santo Antao Church kindle the curiosity of the inquisitive traveler.

The Roman temple and that of Loios Convent is presently a marvelous pousada, as the Gothic church here can be visited by the tourists. Travelers shopping for souvenirs find the Rua         5 de Outubro the right place to find the many souvenir shops. The towers of the Cathedral that has a link to the Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India is yet another historical delight that can be seen from the Gothic Church. The Gothic cloister that unveils statues pertaining to Evangelists as well as the Sacred Art Museum demands the visitors’ attention.

Evora Temple of Diana

Evora Temple of Diana
Evora Temple of Diana                                  source: aboutmygeneration.com

If you are the inquisitive traveler eager to learn about Evora’s past, the City Museum that is found near the Cathedral takes the visitor through the long history related to this region. The paintings, Roman columns, and modern sculptures reiterate the historical significance of Evora. One can spot the Jesuit University behind the Cathedral, which dumbfounds the visitor with its classroom entrances and Renaissance marble cloisters.

If you care to get soaked in peace and quiet, the Porta da Moura Square near the Cathedral is a wonderful place to relax. This picturesque place also possesses a Renaissance fountain that interests many visitors. The very many churches here pave way to glean information about the architecture of olden days and the Graca Church, the most attractive of the lot is a unique church found in the Iberian Peninsula. Yet another church that demands a visit is the Church of Sao Francisco, which with the Gothic structure becomes an awe-inspiring spectacle. There are numerous prehistoric monuments found near Evora, as the Cave of Escoural that is just a few kilometers from the city also demands a visit.