Exploring the Timeless Charm of Évora with Family

First Impressions of Évora: A City Steeped in History

Today marked the beginning of our family adventure in Évora, and what a start it has been! Leaving the Danish winter behind, we landed in Lisbon and drove to Évora, a city that promised a deep dive into history and culture. As a restorer of antique furniture, I was particularly eager to see the craftsmanship of ages past, and Évora certainly didn't disappoint. Astrid, Lasse, and I were all excited to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site together.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Mar De AR Aqueduto Hotel, where we are staying. The hotel is beautiful and set the tone for the luxurious and culturally rich experience we were hoping for.


Experience luxury and comfort at the Mar De AR Aqueduto Hotel, your perfect getaway with top-notch amenities and a prime location for exploration.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the Centro Histórico de Évora. The weather in Évora in January is moderately chilly and breezy, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C to 15°C. I made sure we all had our lightweight jackets; thankfully I had remembered those, unlike the Portuguese phrasebook I had intended to bring! As we wandered through the narrow, winding streets, I couldn't help but feel a sense of stepping back in time.


Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Évora's Centro Histórico, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning architecture and local delights.

The first stop on our historical tour was the Cathedral of Évora. This impressive structure, also known as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption, is the largest medieval cathedral in Portugal. Built between 1186 and 1204, it showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. The fortress-like exterior, with its granite construction, gave a sense of strength and permanence. Inside, the soaring nave and intricate details of the Gothic portal were awe-inspiring. Lasse was particularly fascinated by the twin towers and the panoramic views from the terrace. Astrid, with her librarian's eye, admired the Gothic cloisters and the Manueline chapel.


Explore the Cathedral of Évora, a stunning Gothic masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting Portugal's rich history and architectural beauty.

Exploring Évora is like walking through the pages of a history book, each stone whispering tales of civilizations past.

Next, we visited the Roman Temple of Évora, also known as the Temple of Diana, though its true dedication was likely to Emperor Augustus. Dating back to the 1st century AD, this remarkably well-preserved temple stands as a testament to the Roman influence in the region. The temple's Corinthian columns and the surrounding square exuded an aura of ancient grandeur. As I examined the columns, I couldn't help but marvel at the craftsmanship and the enduring quality of the materials. It's incredible to think that this structure has stood for over two thousand years, witnessing the rise and fall of empires. Lasse, always curious, peppered me with questions about Roman engineering and the temple's various uses throughout history. It had served as a butcher shop from the 14th century until 1836, which helped preserve its remains from complete destruction.


Discover the Roman Temple of Évora, an architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage site, steeped in history and cultural significance.

After immersing ourselves in ancient history, it was time for lunch. We stopped at Café Alentejo, a local restaurant known for its traditional Alentejo cuisine. We enjoyed a variety of dishes, including the Sopa de tomate à Alentejana (tomato soup) and Bochechas de Porco assadas no forno com batatinhas (pork cheeks roasted in the oven with potatoes). The flavors were rich and comforting, providing a perfect respite from our explorations. Astrid particularly enjoyed the arroz de pato tostado (toasted duck rice).


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Café Alentejo in Évora – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

In the afternoon, we continued our exploration of the Centro Histórico de Évora, wandering through the charming streets and soaking in the atmosphere. The city is a delightful blend of architectural styles, with influences from the Romans, Moors, and Christians. Every corner seemed to reveal a new historical gem, from ancient fountains to intricately designed doorways. As we walked, I couldn't help but notice the abundance of shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.

Before dinner, we stopped by Gente da Minha Terra, a shop recommended for its authentic Portuguese crafts. It was a treasure trove of unique, handmade items, from ceramics to textiles. We bought a few small items as mementos of our trip, including a hand-painted tile and a woven blanket. I was particularly impressed by the quality and artistry of the local artisans. Astrid found some natural soaps, and Lasse picked out a few postcards.


Explore Gente da Minha Terra in Évora for unique handmade gifts that embody the spirit of Portuguese craftsmanship and culture.

For dinner, we chose Dom Joaquim, a restaurant known for its Alentejo cuisine and elegant ambiance. The restaurant is near the Porta de Serpa Pinto, one of the access gates to the historic centre of Évora. The chef, Joaquim Almeida, combines traditional dishes with a modern touch. We started with some local cheeses and enchidos (cured meats), followed by the rabo de boi estufado em vinho tinto (oxtail stewed in red wine) and migas alentejanas com carne do alguidar (Alentejo breadcrumbs with pork). The food was exceptional, and the service was impeccable. Joaquim himself recommended a bottle of Mouchão Ponte wine, which perfectly complemented our meal.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Dom Joaquim in Évora - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

As the day drew to a close, we strolled back to our hotel, reflecting on the incredible experiences we had. Évora had truly exceeded our expectations, offering a captivating blend of history, culture, and cuisine. The city's rich heritage was palpable, and I felt a deep connection to the artisans and craftsmen who had shaped its character over the centuries.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Almendres Cromlech, the Chapel of Bones, and the Igreja e Mosteiro de São Francisco. I'm particularly intrigued by the Almendres Cromlech, as it will be fascinating to see a site that predates the Roman era. Astrid is looking forward to the Chapel of Bones, while Lasse is excited about the SkyBAR Évora. It promises to be another day filled with exploration and discovery, and perhaps a few forgotten items from our packing list will be found! I really need a Portuguese phrasebook!

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Travel is not just about seeing new places; it's about creating lasting memories and deepening our connections with each other and the world around us. And Évora, with its timeless charm and rich history, is the perfect place to do just that.

I'm eager to share more of our journey with you as we continue to explore this captivating city. Until then, arrivederci from Évora!