Evora, March 09, 2023

Woke up to sunshine and warm temperatures which reached 20c (68f) so after a lovely breakfast at the hotel we headed into old town to explore.  It was a full day and we got to check out a lot of what Evora has to showcase, and its a lot.  We ended the day at a classic little mom and pop bistro called Taska Fina, also with just six tables, that specialized in local fare.  

Since the 13th century all streets lead to Giraldo Square, the heart of old town Evora.  In the 16th century it became the scene of gruesome public burning's of victims of the Inquisition.  Today it is normally packed with tourists and outdoor cafes.

Headed up to the highest point in Evora (1,000 ft above sea level) to see the Roman Temple in daylight.  On the left is the noble Cadaval families private chapel, Church of the Lolos. 

The beautiful interior of the Church of the Losos.  As you head to the front of the church you step on the tombstones of past Cadaval family members.  The noble box on the left is where the Cadaval family members sat during the service. The blue tilework is from the 17th and 18th centuries and depicts stories from the Bible.  

The Evora Aqueduct as it crosses the medieval walls on its way to the city center.  It was one of the Iberian Peninsula's (Portugal and Spain) greatest 16th century building projects.  The 18km (11m) aqueduct was completed in 1537 to bring fresh drinking water to Evora.

As the Aqueduct enters the city people built homes and shops between the arches to save money on construction costs.

One of the many narrow streets in old town Evora.  The cobblestone lanes are protected by law and must be preserved in their original state.

We made it back to Giraldo Square to enjoy a cappuccino, pastel de nata (a Portuguese egg custard tart) and people watching

 

Our final stop was at the Cathedral of Evora which was completed in 1250 with  additions added in the 15th and 16th centuries.  It is the largest medieval Cathedral in Portugal.  The two massive red granite towers you see here were completed in the early 16th century.

        The interior of the massive Cathedral is done in sumptuous Baroque style.  Here is the very ornately decorated Apse.

                    We did a full tour of the Cathedral.  Looking down at the Cloisters with its very peaceful inner courtyard with orange trees.

At Taska Fina, Rita and I both had "Lagratinho", the specialty of the house, grilled Iberian black pig  (grilled strips of pork taken from between the ribs) with mashed bread (bread cooked in olive oil, garlic, onions and local herbs), french fries and salad. The pork was very flavorful and tender, the mashed bread tasted like stuffing.  A yummy end to our busy day.