TRAVEL
Portugal’s Hidden Gem Becomes 2027 European Capital of Culture
Why Évora Deserves a Spot on Your Travel List
Évora is possibly one of the most interesting places to visit in Portugal and fittingly is set to be the European Capital of Culture for 2027 recognizing the city’s rich history, culture, and Varga, meaning the art of slow living.
Located in Portugal’s southern Alentejo region, Évora reigns as its capital. The vast Alentejo stretches from the Tagus River in the north to the Algarve in the south. Its rolling pastoral hills, very similar to Italy’s Tuscany, offer an abundance of cork trees and vineyards.
This is where authentic Portuguese culture can be found. “Pressa” (meaning hurry) is a forgotten word. Life is simpler, savoured, and sweeter.
The beautiful town of Évora is just an hour east of Lisbon. It is often overlooked by visitors who favour Porto’s charm, the Douro Valley’s vineyards, Lisbon’s buzz, and the Algarve’s beaches. Yet, Évora has all the components of a dream city break with beautiful architecture, endless history, and a delicious food scene.
Twenty Decades of History
The earliest known inhabitants of the region extend back to Celtic times. Then Romans arrived in the 2nd century BC, transforming the city (known as Liberalitas Julia) with impressive structures like the Temple of Diana, its unique ring road layout and ancient aqueducts all remain to this day.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Évora witnessed the rise and fall of various occupants.
The Visigoths and Moors left their mark. The Moors, in particular, in the 8th century, brought advanced agricultural techniques, new architectural styles, and a love for intricate tile work that still adorns many buildings today.
By the 15th century, Évora thrived as a center of learning and culture, attracting royalty who built stunning palaces, convents, and a university in the Manueline style.
This evolution leaves a mismatch of architectural styles that remain largely intact, even now earning the city UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
Finding Varga, the Art of Slow Living
The unhurried pace invites you to truly see the city.
With its cobbled streets, low-laying whitewashed Portuguese buildings, and pretty tiles, simply strolling around here is endlessly inspiring. As you do, there is much to stumble upon.
Dare to enter the 15th-century Church of São Francisco, once part of a Franciscan Monastery, and you’ll find yourself face-to-face with the Chapel of Bones. An inscription above the entrance reads, “We bones that lay here wait for your bones,” setting the tone for this haunting yet strangely beautiful display of thousands of human skeletons.
Step outside and onto the Conde Vila Flor square where you’ll find the ancient ruined Roman Temple, believed to be dedicated to the goddess Diana. Remarkably, it has continuously served the city throughout history, even experiencing transformations as diverse as a mosque during the Moorish period and a bustling market in medieval times.
Dominating the city’s skyline with its spire visible from nearly every corner is the Évora Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. Walk along the rooftop for panoramic views that sweep over the charming town and melt into the rolling Alentejo countryside.
Relax in the 19th century Jardim Público. Watch as the strutting peacocks roam freely against the backdrop of a former 15th-century royal palace left abandoned two centuries later.
Explore the 14th-century Cadaval Palace with mesmerizing blue and white tiles gracing the interior palace walls. Art lovers will be drawn to the rotating exhibits featuring local artists.
Join the locals and people watch on the city’s main square, Praça do Giraldo. The focal point is a fountain with eight spouts, said to represent each of the streets that lead away from the square.
Sip and savour
Forget rushed meals, Alentejo cuisine is all about savouring the bounty of the region.
Indulge in a leisurely exploration of local cheeses and vintages, perfectly paired with Alentejo bread — a simple pleasure that allows you to truly appreciate the fresh flavours. Cozy wine bars and terraces can be found on the narrowest of streets. Pick one, and enjoy.
For a taste of history, delve into açorda, a traditional bread soup with garlic and a poached egg. Migas com carne de porco is another slow food masterpiece — a rustic dish featuring breadcrumbs and local pork, simmered to perfection for a comforting meal that begs to be enjoyed without haste.
And no exploration of local cuisine is complete without surrendering to the sweet temptations. Queijadas de requeijão, small cakes made from egg yolks, and bolo de mel, a decadent honey cake. Be prepared for a delightful surprise — you might stumble upon a tiny alleyway window, open just enough to purchase these homemade treats on the spot. They are the perfect way to end your slow-paced culinary adventure.
Of course, no visit to Évora would be complete without indulging in the local wine.
While there are wine tastings available within the walls of the old town, venturing out to the nearby wineries offers an even better slow-living experience, allowing you to see the winemaking process from field to bottle. Try a variety of whites and reds while overlooking the picturesque vineyards.
A Sweet Ending
This is a city to be savoured, not rushed. Évora isn’t about ticking off sights, it’s about embracing the art of Vagar, the art of slow living.
So, come experience Évora before the world catches on — but don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to keep this gem a secret a little while longer.
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