Destination Weddings in Évora

Évora is considered to be one of the most notable cities in Portugal, loaded with history and distinguished monuments. The Romans occupied the area for four centuries and the narrow alleyways are suggestive of the settlement of the Moors, who had a four-century habitation there as well. Most of the monuments date back from the 14th to the 16th centuries, when the city was one of the leading hubs of Portuguese art and architecture. Évora, with a population of over 41,00 considers itself to be an academic center, thanks to the prominent University founded in 16th Century by Cardinal Dom Henrique.

There are a number of noteworthy landmarks throughout Évora, such as the 15th Century Convento dos Lóios, which has been renovated as a popular Pousada. The construction of the city’s Cathedral began in 1186 and took some 50 years to build. Inside the wall that surrounds the city, there are 2nd or 3rd Century ruins of a Roman Temple dedicated to the Goddess Diana. Prior to its restoration in 1870, it had been utilized as a theatre, and even a slaughterhouse at one point.

There are several museums such as the Museu de Évora, the Galeria de Arte Casa Cadaval, the Museu de Arte Sacra, and the Museu de Artes Decorativas Religiosas. The Museu de Évora, which stores some religious items of interest, was formerly the palace of the Bishop and was designed using a variety of stones from earlier buildings in the city. Nearby is the "Convento da Cartuxa," a 16th Century Monastery, which is still occupied by a few monks. The surrounding area is flanked by several wonderful restaurants, which serve local specialties. Not too far from town is an 18 km Aqueduct built in 1532 to supply water to the city's residents.

The amazing structures in Évora make a stunning backdrop to any wedding celebration.