Évora
is our first destination and where we’ll be staying for a short three day trip north. Known as the capital city within the south-central Alentejo region.[source: wikipedia] Most recently, the European Parliament that governs the Capitals of Culture has named Évora as a “European Capital of Culture” in 2027. It will share this title with Liepaja in Latvia. As I read, the cities in the EU that want to be promoted as such apply for this distinction. There were 12 cities in Portugal alone that applied. Side bar: To read more in depth about this you can go to this link.
I’ll explain in a bit why I chose this city to visit. You know that Portugal is the oldest country in Europe, right? So with that there are so many historical places to visit. I am slowly trying to learn the history of this country. While we are not on a historical trip this time, we do learn some fun facts such as Évora is over five millennia old. It was originally called Ebora for its etymological origins. The name translates to “of the yew trees”. As far as rulers there were the usual trouncers of Romans, the Arabs, the Moors and the Portuguese regaining their hold. Later the Peninsular War included battles with the UK, France and Spain. Portugal is a land of so, so many conquerors and influential cultures. Sights to see in Évora include the Roman Temple of Évora, the Chapel of Bones and the World Heritage sight of Cathedral of Évora (the facade is built with rose granite). [source: Wikipedia] Side bar: I’ve been to a different Chapel of Bones in Faro and I think one is enough for anyone! We agreed we would make a second trip to see the history.
Stepping back for a minute, the plan and reason Hal & I chose this city for the trip was a great one. Attend the Wine Festival in Évora and meet up with some of the Alentejo winemakers and taste some great wines. Wait what? A wine festival why didn’t I start with that? Well the Wine Festival was moved up a week in less than a month before the event. At that point we had accommodations reserved. There were no hotels available to change weekends, no chance to stay anywhere near the city. We later learned upon arrival that the reason for the Wine Festival date change was because the University of Évora was holding its graduation ceremonies! It didn’t detract or disrupt us but there were a lot of students and parents. Actually fun to see, the kids were so excited and fun to watch.
So as I mentioned, it’s a fairly quick trip north and we checked in to our apartment right in the city of Évora. Off to explore shortly after.