Monday 15 August 2016

Évora, UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Temple of Diana in the city of Évora, in Portugal, is believed to have been built around the first century A.D in honour of Augustus, the founder of the Roman Empire. 
With a Roman style, Évora Cathedral  represents a major symbol of the city's historic center. In 1988, it was classified as a World Heritage Site.

Évora is located in the region of High Alentejo and it's known by its white houses and a very hot climate.
In 715, Évora was conquered by the Moors. Evidence of the Moorish influence is visible all over the city.
Stone bench with "azulejos", traditional from Portugal.
Ruins of what once was inhabited by the Moors.
Évora was wrested from the Moors through a surprise attack by Gerald the Fearless (Geraldo Sem Pavor) in September 1165.
 Peacock!
Sun clock
 Welcome to the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos), created in the late XVI century by Franciscan monks.
For some, this Chapel is one of the most creepy touristic spots. Perhaps because its interior is all made out of real bones, skulls and entire bodies hanging from the wall.  
By the 16th century, there were as many as 43 cemeteries in and around Évora that were taking up valuable land. Not wanting to condemn the souls of the people buried there, the monks decided to build the Chapel and relocate the bones.

The design of the Chapel of Bones in Évora is based on the ossuary of San Bernadino alla Ossa in Milan, Italy.

Public Library in the city center, Évora.
The Moors were definitely here.
Moorish window.

The ideal outdoors lounge for a light refreshment during an usual afternoon heat wave.
Relaxing view over a quiet city.

Narrow street in the city center. 

In the Praça Giraldo, center of Évora.

Traditional window.
The ruins of the ancient temple is classified by the UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
A delicious healthy meal was a necessary stop in the  restaurant "Momentos".  The friendly staff informed us we were in a carbs and butter free restaurant. Welcome to Alentejo!

The beautiful sunset in Évora.

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