Perched high on a hill in Portugal’s Alentejo region, Évoramonte (Évora Monte) is a picture-perfect medieval village that seems frozen in time. With its imposing castle, ancient walls, and sweeping views over the surrounding plains, Évoramonte is one of those places where history and landscape blend seamlessly. Despite its small size, home to only a few hundred residents it is rich in history and offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to step away from the beaten path.
The Modern Évoramonte
The village is split into two distinct areas:
- Vila Velha (Old Village) – Enclosed within the ancient fortress walls, this is the historic heart of Évoramonte, home to only about 30 people.
- Lower Village – Located just outside the walls, this is where most of the town’s 570 residents live, and where you’ll find services like a post office, pharmacy, ATMs, cafés, and restaurants.
Walking through Vila Velha often feels like stepping into another century, with quiet, cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and barely a soul in sight. If you’re looking for local life and amenities, the lower village is where to go.
The Best things to See and Do in Évoramonte
This may be a small village, but its packed with history. Here’s the best things to see and do in Évoramonte.
1. Enter Through the Historic Gates
There are two entrances to Vila Velha:
- The main (north-eastern) gateway, accessible by car but just barely the narrow passage is a challenge for anything larger than a small vehicle!
- A smaller pedestrian gate, perfect if you’re walking up from the lower village, or the lower parking area.
Either way, stepping through these historic gates is a grand entrance to the old village.
2. Explore the Historic Streets
Évoramonte’s old village is tiny, with just one main street weaving through it. But take your time as there are plenty of small historical monuments, curiosities, and even artwork to find. Don’t forget to look down, as among the cobble stone streets are stones painted as houses that can actually be found in the village!
3. Casa da Convenção de Évoramonte
At first glance, this building looks just like any other whitewashed home in the village. But in 1834, this tiny house became the site of the Convention of Évoramonte, the treaty that ended the Portuguese Civil War. Today, a simple marble plaque marks its historic importance. It’s easy to walk past it and not know you’re walking past the place of a defining moment in Portuguese history.
4. Paços do Concelho & The Lost Pelourinho
Further down the street, you’ll find the Paços do Concelho, the village’s historic town hall, now home to a small tourist office. Across from it, you’ll spot the remains of the Pelourinho, an old administrative pillar made of Estremoz marble. Sadly, not much is left just a small stump of the original column.
5. The Castle of Évoramonte (Castelo de Évoramonte)
The highlight of the village, Castelo de Évoramonte, dominates the skyline from miles away. Sitting at over 480 meters above sea level, it’s one of the highest points in the Serra de Ossa and offers 360-degree views over the Alentejo countryside.
This castle is unlike any other in Portugal. Built in the 16th century, it blends military and Manueline architectural styles, featuring four cylindrical turrets, thick defensive walls, and intricate rope-like stonework wrapping around the structure. It was designed by the Arruda brothers, the same architects behind the nearby Paço Ducal in Vila Viçosa.
Though it’s often called a tower or ducal palace, there’s little evidence it was ever a permanent residence. Instead, it may have served as a hunting lodge or strategic retreat for the Dukes of Bragança. Regardless, its unique design and breathtaking views make it a must-visit.
6. Sunset Over the Alentejo Plains
If there’s one thing you must do in Évoramonte, it’s watching the sunset from the castle or perhaps a nearby wine terrace. The vast landscape stretches as far as the eye can see, with rolling hills, olive groves, and small villages scattered across the plains. Bring a bottle of Alentejo wine, find a spot along the castle walls, and take in that glorious view.
Where to Eat & Drink in Évoramonte
The old village is tiny, and unsurprisingly, you have very few options of places to eat or drink. In fact, there’s really only one!
The Café at Évoramonte
Located inside The Place at Évoramonte, this charming café is the only one within the walled village. Fortunately, it’s excellent—offering delicious coffee, snacks, and an incredible terrace with panoramic views. It’s an ideal spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
Lower Village Options
However, if you head down to the lower village, you’ll find several more options, including bakeries, pastelarias, and a couple of small restaurants serving traditional Alentejo cuisine.
Is Évoramonte worth visiting?
Absolutely. Évoramonte may be small, but it’s remarkable. Its combination of history, breathtaking views, and peaceful atmosphere makes it one of my favourite hidden gems in the Alentejo region. If you’re passing through on an Alentejo road trip or looking for a quiet retreat off the beaten path, it’s well worth a visit.
Attractions Near Évoramonte
If you’re road-tripping through the Alentejo, Évoramonte makes a perfect stop between major destinations. Nearby attractions include:
- Évora (30 km away) – A UNESCO World Heritage City, home to the famous Roman Temple, Chapel of Bones, and Sé Cathedral.
- Estremoz (18 km away) – Known for its marble industry, vibrant Saturday market, and historic castle.
- Vila Viçosa (40 km away) – A stunning town featuring the Paço Ducal, the former palace of the Dukes of Bragança.
- Arraiolos (35 km away) – Famous for its handmade Arraiolos carpets and medieval castle.