Évora - A Journey through Time in the Heart of Portugal

• HelloOlá
  [oh-LAH]
• GoodbyeAdeus
  [ah-DEH-oos]
• YesSim
  [seem]
• NoNão
  [now]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-VOHR/deh NAH-dah]
• Thank youObrigado
  [oh-bree-GAH-doo]
• Excuse me/SorryCom licença/Desculpe
  [kohm lee-SEN-sah/dehs-KOOL-peh]
• How are you?Como está?
  [KOH-moo ehs-TAH]
• Fine. And you?Estou bem. E você?
  [ehs-TOH-oo beng. eh VOO-seh]
• Do you speak English?Fala inglês?
  [FAH-lah een-GLEHZ]
• I don't understandNão entendo
  [now een-TEN-doo]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGostava de ver o menu, por favor
  [goh-STAH-vah deh vehr oo MEH-noo, por fah-VOHR]
• I don't eat meatNão como carne
  [now KOH-moo KAHR-neh]
• Cheers!Saúde!
  [sah-OOD-eh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGostaria de pagar, por favor
  [goh-stah-REE-ah deh pah-GAHR, por fah-VOHR]

• Help!Socorro!
  [so-KOH-roo]
• Go away!Vai embora!
  [VAH-ee ehm-BOH-rah]
• Call the Police!Chame a polícia!
  [SHAH-meh ah poh-LEE-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Chame um médico!
  [SHAH-meh oong MEH-dee-koo]
• I'm lostEstou perdido
  [ehs-TOH pehr-DEE-doo]
• I'm illEstou doente
  [ehs-TOH doo-EN-teh]

• I'd like to buy...Gostaria de comprar...
  [goh-stah-REE-ah deh kohm-PRAR]
• I'm just lookingEstou só a ver
  [ehs-TOH soo ah vehr]
• How much is it?Quanto custa?
  [KWAHN-too KOOSH-tah]
• That's too expensiveIsso é muito caro
  [EE-soo eh MOO-ee-too KAH-roo]
• Can you lower the price?Pode baixar o preço?
  [POH-deh BAI-shar oo PREH-soo]

• What time is it?Que horas são?
  [kay OH-ras sahn]
• It's one o'clockÉ uma hora
  [eh OO-mah OH-rah]
• Half past (10)Meia dezena
  [MEH-yah deh-ZEH-nah]
• MorningManhã
  [mah-NYAH]
• AfternoonTarde
  [TAHR-deh]
• EveningNoite
  [NOY-teh]
• YesterdayOntem
  [ohn-TEM]
• TodayHoje
  [OH-zheh]
• TomorrowAmanhã
  [ah-mah-NYAH]
• 1Um
  [oom]
• 2Dois
  [doh-ees]
• 3Três
  [trehs]
• 4Quatro
  [KWAH-troo]
• 5Cinco
  [SEEN-koo]
• 6Seis
  [saysh]
• 7Sete
  [SEH-teh]
• 8Oito
  [OY-too]
• 9Nove
  [NOH-veh]
• 10Dez
  [dehz]

• Where's a/the...?Onde fica o/a...?
  [OHN-dee FEE-kah oo/ah]
• What's the address?Qual é a morada?
  [kahl EH ah moh-RAH-dah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pode mostrar-me (no mapa)?
  [POH-deh moh-SHTR-meh (noh MAH-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando é o próximo (autocarro)?
  [KWAHN-doo eh oo PROH-ksih-moh (ow-TOH-kah-roo)]
• A ticket (to ....)Um bilhete (para ....)
  [oom bee-LEH-teh (PAH-rah)]

Évora, originally known as Liberalitas Julia, was founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC. The city's well-preserved Roman Temple, often referred to as the Temple of Diana, stands as a testament to this era. This ancient city was an important center in the Roman province of Lusitania, demonstrating significant urban development typical of Roman influence.

In 715 AD, Évora fell under Moorish control, which lasted until the 12th century. The Moors left a lasting impact on the city's architecture, urban structure, and cultural landscape. The ancient city walls and the Giraldo Square reflect Moorish architectural styles, blending seamlessly with later Christian elements.

Évora was reconquered by the Portuguese King Afonso I in 1166. This period marked the beginning of the city's golden age, particularly during the reign of King Manuel I in the 16th century. Notable structures such as the Évora Cathedral and the Royal Palace of Évora were built during this time, showcasing the Manueline architectural style.

Founded in 1559 by Cardinal Henry and under the guidance of Jesuits, the University of Évora became a prominent center of learning. It attracted scholars from across Europe and played a crucial role in the intellectual and cultural development of Portugal. The university continues to be a significant educational institution to this day.

Évora was one of the key locations for the Portuguese Inquisition, starting in the mid-16th century. The Inquisition left a dark mark on the city's history, with many trials and executions taking place. The Inquisition Palace, now part of the university, stands as a reminder of this somber period.

The city experienced a decline in the 18th and 19th centuries due to political instability and economic hardships. Despite this, Évora retained its historical charm. Many of its ancient structures survived, including the medieval aqueduct, known as the Água de Prata Aqueduct, which continues to be a significant landmark.

In contemporary times, Évora has been recognized for its historical significance and preserved heritage. The city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986. Today, Évora is a vibrant blend of the old and the new, with its ancient streets, cultural festivals, and a thriving academic community, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Évora is located in the Alentejo region of Portugal. The nearest international airport is Lisbon Portela Airport, approximately 130 kilometers away. From Lisbon, you can take a direct train from Lisbon's Oriente Station to Évora, which takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Sete Rios Bus Station in Lisbon, which also takes around 1.5 hours. For those driving, the A6 motorway connects Lisbon to Évora, making it an easy road trip.

Évora is a compact city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available and relatively affordable. Public buses operate within the city and connect to nearby towns. Renting a bike is also a popular option for exploring the city. Car rentals are available for those looking to explore the surrounding Alentejo region at their own pace.

The official currency in Portugal is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in Évora, including in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or local markets. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and foreign exchange services can be found in major tourist areas.

Évora is generally a very safe city for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. The local police station (Polícia de Segurança Pública) and medical facilities, including the Hospital do Espírito Santo de Évora, are available for assistance. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably, but remember to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual attire such as swimwear away from the pool or beach. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious sites. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bom dia' (Good morning) or 'Boa tarde' (Good afternoon). A handshake is customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like 'açorda' and 'migas'. Don't rush meals; dining is considered a social activity in Portugal.

To experience Évora like a local, visit the Mercado Municipal de Évora where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Portuguese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos), a unique and slightly macabre site. For a unique experience, take a walk around the ancient Roman Temple and the University of Évora, one of the oldest universities in Portugal.