Travel

The Porta da Vila seen from inside the village. The original bell, dating from 1692, is housed in the tower on the right.|There are only two streets in Monsaraz that run the length of the village. This is the main one. Wheeled vehicles are not allowed, except for loading/unloading, but there is plenty of parking just outside the walls.|Another view of the Rua Direita. All the village’s streets and lanes are cobbled.|This ATM, next to the Junta da Freguesia, is about the only concession Monsaraz makes to the 21st century.|The main tower of the castle, called the Torre de São Gens do Xarez, or, more familiarly, Torre das Feiticeiras (Tower of Witches). Construction of the castle was started by King Alfonso III and eventually completed by his son Dinis I in the early 13th century. Entrance is free. The views from the tower are exceptional.|One of the many beautiful views from the village – this one looking east to the Alqueva Lake.|A reminder that the Templar knights were active in the castle’s construction and defense.|The fertile Alentejano plains as seen from the castle|Another view of the village. Note the absence of tourists and of cars!|The Porta da Cisterna and, beyond it, the Porta do Buraco, one of the four entrances to the village.|The hilltop walled village of Monsaraz, seen from the east (the Alqueva Lake) side. The castle and the Igreja Matriz are clearly visible, anchoring the walls.|The 16th century Igreja Matriz, Nossa Senhora da Lagoa, which was rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake and is currently being renovated. In front of the church, in the main square (Largo Nuno Álvares Pereira), is an 18th century marble pillory (pelourinho) where announcements were made and laws and punishments given.|A view over the roofs of Monsaraz, looking southeast towards the Alqueva.|Helga and Robbie Edwards toast Monsaraz with a lovely local vinho branco on the terrace of the Sahida restaurant.|The Porta da Vila serves as the main entrance to the walled village. It dates from the 17th century. Above the arch, there is a memorial to the Immaculate Conception, installed by King João IV in 1646

Monsaraz: dream village

Helga and I, along with a few family members, have just spent a marvellous long weekend in Monsaraz. It wasn’t our first time, and it certainly won’t be the last.

April 25, 2024by Larry Hampton
Casa das Penhas Douradas 4|Burel Wool Factory|Casa das Penhas Douradas 1 - Foto JOSÉ VICENTE - AGÊNCIA CALIPO|Casa das Penhas Douradas 2|Casa das Penhas Douradas 3|Casa das Penhas Douradas 4|Casa de São Lourenço. Photo: LUIS FERRAZ|Casa de São Lourenço 1|Casa de São Lourenço 2|Casa de São Lourenço

Portuguese snowscapes

Amid the wild landscapes of the Serra da Estrela, two boutique hotels weave contemporary designs with traditional Burel wool Some of life’s greatest luxuries are time, space and tranquillity, three

February 26, 2024by Alexandra Stilwell