8H
Daily Tour
25 people
English, Espanol
Evora is a city rich in history, with a past that dates back to Roman times. The city’s historical significance is evident in the many well-preserved architectural landmarks, making it a popular tourist destination for those interested in exploring this part of Portugal’s history.
The city’s history can be traced back to the 2nd century BC, when it was founded by the Celts, who called it Ebora. During the Roman period, the city was known as Liberatias Julia, and it became an important regional capital due to its strategic location. The city’s most notable Roman landmark is the Temple of Diana, a well-preserved Corinthian-style temple that serves as a testament to the importance of the city during this period.
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The cromeleques in Évora is a prehistoric megalithic complex located about 8km east of the city. The site is believed to have been constructed between 4000 and 2000 BC and is one of the most important megalithic sites in Europe. The cromeleques site consists of two main groups of standing stones, collectively called the Almendres Cromlech. The first group has twenty-nine stones arranged in an oval formation, while the second group has forty-two stones arranged in two smaller ovals to the north of the first group. The stones themselves are large and made of granite, with an average height of about two meters. Many of the stones also have carvings and engravings on them that suggest they were used for astrological and ritualistic purposes. Visitors to the Almendres Cromlech can explore the site on a self-guided walking tour, following a trail that winds through the complex. The trail provides information about the site’s history and the significance of the sto nes’ placement and carvings. It is worth noting that the Almendres Cromlech is an open-air site, and there are limited facilities or amenities available on-site. Visitors should come well-prepared with water and suitable footwear.
The historic center of Évora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it offers a captivating tour of the city’s rich history and architecture. Visitors can start their tour in the Praça do Giraldo, one of the main squares in the city. The square is surrounded by buildings that date back to the 16th century, including the Palace of the Dukes of Cadaval, which is now a museum. A statue of Geraldo Geraldes, a local hero who liberated the city from Moorish rule in the 12th century, stands prominently in the center of the square. From there, visitors can head to the Cathedral of Évora, which is one of the most significant landmarks in the city. The cathedral dates back to the 12t h century and features a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. Visitors can admire the intricate designs of the chapel, the stained glass windows, and the bell tower, which offers panoramic views of the city. Finally, visitors should take a stroll along the city’s narrow streets, lined with whitewashed buildings decorated with vibrant blue and yellow tiles. This part of the city is known as the Moorish Quarter, which reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage. Overall, a tour of the historic center of Évora offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history and culture through its many well-preserved landmarks and architectural treasures.
is a historic Catholic church located in the heart of the historic city center of Évora, Portugal. It was constructed in the 15th century and is one of the finest examples of Gothic-Manueline architecture in the country. The church features a wide range of architectural styles and decorative elements, including intricate ribbed vaulting, rose windows, and Gothic-style decorations on the facade. The church also has an impressive cloister with elaborately carved columns and a beautiful fountain in the center. One of the most famous attractions of the Church of São Francisco is the Chapel of Bones, which is located within the church complex. The chapel is decorated with over 5,000 human skulls and bones that were exhumed from local cemeteries during the 16th century. The bones are arranged in intricate patterns, and the walls and ceiling of the chapel are adorned with friezes and carvings. The message of the chapel is to remind visitors that we are all mortal and that we should live a virtuous life. The nave of the church consists of a mix of Gothic and Manueline styles and is known for its elaborate ribbed vaults and intricate sculptural decorations. The interior also features some striking works of religious art, including a set of 18th-century oil paintings that depict the lives of St. Francis and St. Anthony.
The Roman Temple of Évora, also known as the Temple of Diana, is an ancient Roman temple located in the historic city center of Évora, Portugal. The temple dates back to the 1st century AD and is one of the most significant Roman landmarks in the country. The temple was built during the reign of Emperor Augustus and was dedicated to the cult of the Emperor. The structure has six Corinthian columns, each measuring over seven meters in height, and a pediment with decorative carvings that depict mythological scenes. The columns are made of granite and feature intricate patterns and detailing, including carved acanthus leaves and human and animal figures. The temple was later converted to a Christian church during the Middle Ages, and many of the original columns were replaced with Gothic-style buttresses. However, the structure was restored in the 19th century, and the original columns were re-erected. The Roman Temple of Évora is now a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site offers visitors a glimpse into the world of ancient Rome, showcasing the impressive engineering and architectural feats of the era. The temple is named after the Roman goddess Diana, although there is no evidence that the temple was originally dedicated to her. However, the name has endured over time and has become synonymous with the temple.
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