Evora Invites Artists, Historians, Equestrians To a Rare Romantic Setting

Situated behind the roman Temple of Diana excavated a century ago, the Historical Pousada Loios' 32 monk’s cells have been transformed into artistic rooms of velvets, satins, and voiles with pink marble baths. Marble seems cheaper than wallpaper in Portugal's Alentejo region. The romantic dining area, contained within cloisters, encircles a central garden. Trout with smoked ham; duckling with coriander; and empanadas – patties of chou pastry filled with chicken are delicious Portuguese specialties of this region's cuisine.

The Pousada dos Loios is minutes from everything of importance in Evora, a center for the arts and learning during the 15^th and 16^th centuries. It was a favorite location of the court. Tour the university there, a handsome building, survives and functions; and visit the cathedral, a product of several centuries, featuring a beautiful gilded wedding chapel. Views from its tower reveal more of Evora's lovely twisting streets than a walk through them ever could.

The Ervideira Stud herd grazes on the Fonte Boa estate on the road to Redondo near Evora, as it has for more than a century. These handsome horses, pride of Portugal, have won many prizes and awards.

Back