Evora, encircled by ancient walls, is preparing to take center stage in Europe while preserving its trademark tranquility. Located just an hour’s drive from Badajoz along the A6, this UNESCO World Heritage city is a remarkable blend of a Gothic cathedral, Roman columns, and sun-drenched squares. Here, time seems to flow differently—leisurely—which instantly enchants any traveler. Earning the title of European Capital of Culture 2027 has already sparked a cultural revival: new exhibitions, artist residencies, and performances are now appearing on the calendar. The goal of these events is to open up the doors of churches, palaces, and modern art spaces to the wider public, reinforcing the city’s historic role as the cultural heart of southern Portugal.
The golden stone silhouette of the city is defined by the towers of Sé Cathedral, built between the 12th and 14th centuries. Climb to its rooftop for the city’s best panorama: terracotta-tiled roofs, the outline of ancient walls, and the endless Alentejo plains. Just a few steps away is the Roman temple, with its majestic Corinthian columns—a reminder of Emperor Augustus’ era and one of Évora’s most photographed landmarks. Nearby, in the former bishop’s palace, the museum houses archaeological finds and sacred art, allowing you to trace the city’s history layer by layer. The heart of Évora beats on Giraldo Square—a meeting point beneath arcades, in cozy cafés, or by the marble fountain from which eight historic streets radiate like sunbeams. One of them, Rua Cinco de Outubro, winds past whitewashed facades to artisan workshops brimming with cork goods, ceramics, and wines from the Alentejo region.
Your journey through history becomes deeper and more personal behind the doors of Saint Francis Church, home to the Chapel of Bones. Its walls, entirely covered with thousands of human remains, invite reflection on how fleeting life is. In sharp contrast, just a short walk away, lies the public park—an oasis of romantic gardens, picturesque ruins, and roaming peacocks that transform an ordinary stroll into a near-theatrical experience, perfect for family outings.
Gastronomic delights
Local cuisine is a testament to the region’s authenticity: these are rustic dishes, perfected over generations while staying true to their roots. Slow-cooked pork, lamb, migas, and fresh bread form the backbone of the menu. Some chefs are reimagining ‘forgotten’ recipes with modern techniques to offer guests unique flavor combinations. Monastery bakeries preserve age-old recipes for sweets made with almonds and egg yolks—a temptation that pleasantly prolongs the afternoon in the shade and cool.
Beyond the city walls
Путешествие легко можно продолжить и за пределами крепостных стен. Эко-тропа Рамал де Мора, проложенная по старой железнодорожной ветке, идеально подходит для велосипедных прогулок среди оливковых рощ и садов вдоль акведука XVI века. На западе от города находится Кромелек-душ-Алмендриш, один из важнейших мегалитических комплексов на Пиренейском полуострове. Тишина и тысячелетние камни этого места лучше всего объясняют, почему этот регион нужно исследовать без спешки. По возвращении в город, винный маршрут Алентежу предлагает дегустации и посещение виноделен, которые дополняют карту впечатлений минеральными белыми и характерными красными винами.
Unique accommodations and logistics
Staying here is also part of the unique experience. Former monasteries and 15th-century mansions, now converted into hotels, offer the coolness of stone walls and the quiet of courtyards shaded by orange trees. The easiest way to reach Évora from Spain is via the A-5/A6 highway through Badajoz-Elvas. The historic center is best explored on foot, leaving your car outside the city walls. The dry climate makes spring and autumn the ideal times to visit, when temperatures are most comfortable and the cultural calendar is full of events.
