Estremoz

The major attractions of Estremoz are its picturesque setting and Moorish character. The medieval atmosphere has been largely retained in the narrow lanes and historic buildings, both employing the local white marble in their construction. This is most apparent in the area in the upper town. You will especially want to explore the neighborhood around the Largo do Castelo Square and see the Chapel of the Saint Queen with its lovely azulejo interior. Queen Isabel, wife of Dom Diniz, died here in 1336 after an arduous journey, and the painted tiles depict the various miracles attributed to her life’s work spent in the service of the poor. She was beloved of the Portuguese people and was canonized in the 16th century. Estremoz’s 13th-century, 30-meter keep that flanks its pousada is called the “Tower of Three Crowns” because its construction spanned the reigns of three monarchs. There are fabulous views from its battlements. Nearby is the Church of Saint Mary, which dates from the 16th century.Estremoz has always been famous for its ceramics, which are both functional and decorative. If you walk from the pousada down to the lower town (centered around the main Praça do Marques de Pombal), you will encounter numerous ceramic boutiques. On the way you will pass the Luis de Camoes Square, its marble pillory silent testimony to the trials of the Inquisition. On the south side of the main square is the 17th-century town hall, now housing the Municipal Museum, which has a good collection of popular art, as well as ethnographic and archaeological exhibits.If you are fortunate or foresighted enough to be here on a Saturday, you can enjoy a lively market in and around the main square displaying everything from handicrafts, ceramics, and marble to livestock, clothing, and old furniture.