Plan a trip to Elvas

It had great strategic importance due to its location near the border with Spain, and, having served as a natural crossing point between the countries, it was dubbed the “Key to the Kingdom." It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For centuries, Elvas was threatened by invasions from Spain, and, as a result, it is one of the best fortified towns in Portugal with ramparts and layers of walls. An aerial view shows the star shape of the walls and forts, the largest of which is Forte Da Grace. It dates back to the 18th century and has 3 circles of star-shaped walls with defense ditches between them. The fort offers a beautiful view of the Old Town with its low white houses adorned with arches and iron railings- a reminder of the Moorish history of the city.

Prominent in the landscape is the 4-story, 833-arched aqueduct that was built in the 11th century and carried water to the fortified city.

The plain exterior of the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Consolacao, located in the Largo de Santa Clara square, masks its breathtaking interior. Its walls, pillars, and ceiling are adorned with beautiful 17th century Azulejos, and it boasts three elaborate gilt altars.

Elvas, one of the picturesque, historic towns in Alentejo, is also vibrant and full of life.