Plan a trip to Monsaraz

Dating back to medieval times, the town has spectacular natural beauty, outstanding architecture, and a rich history. It has, uniquely, managed to retain its historic authenticity, giving the feeling that it is suspended in time. Today historic Monsaraz is a museum village, and it can be explored only on foot as vehicles are not permitted within the walls.

Because of its strategic location, atop a hill overlooking the region and the border with Spain, Monsaraz has been sought after since prehistoric times. The Romans, Visigoth, and Moors lived here until the Christians reconquered the area in the 13th century. As a result, the town is heavily fortified, with impressive remains of its historic battlements.

There are imposing walls surrounding Monsaraz, with four big entranceways. Porta da Vila (Village Door) is the main entry, and it is protected by two tubular towers. It is adorned with a gothic arch that contains a 16th memorial stone to the Immaculate Conception. The Porta d’Evora also has a gothic arch with a tower. There are full arches atop the remaining two entryways.

The Monsaraz Castle, built by King Dinis in the 14th century, is located within the walls, and it is a National Monument of Portugal. The castle served as a bullfighting ring in the 19th century – a function that it continues during annual holidays. The castle is a popular tourist site, and there are wonderful views from there of the Alqueva Lake, the largest artificial lake in Europe and a wonder of Portuguese construction. Rental boats are available for cruising, and there is a range of other water activities, as well.

The magnificent 16th century Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Lagoa church boasts an impressive central hall with a carved marble tomb from the 14th century. The imposing, white marble Pelourinho, dating back to the 18th century, is another town landmark, and it is situated in front of the main church. The Museu de Arte Sacra religious art museum is housed in a beautiful Gothic style building, and it displays a small 14th collection of religious figures carved from wood, robes, and silver items.

There are megalithic monuments from the Late Stone Age scattered around the town, giving the wonderful opportunity to explore them among the olive orchards, the open fields, and abundant wildflowers.

To end your day, don’t miss out on the outstanding traditional Alentejo cuisine and the local wines - try the Reserva Monsaraz, you won’t regret it!