Estremoz is a charming town in the Alentejo region, known for its marble, rich history and unique atmosphere. For centuries, it has played an important role in Portuguese history. The town, surrounded by defensive walls, attracts tourists with its architecture, monuments and local crafts. Estremoz is also famous for its traditional markets, which take place in the Rossio Marquês de Pombal square. Alentejo is full of good wine, local food and other attractions. Find out what to see in Estremoz, where to stay and where to eat well.
History Estremoz
The origins of Estremoz date back to Roman times, and in the Middle Ages the city became a strategic defensive point on the border with Spain. The impressive castle, which has become the symbol of the city, dates back to this period. In the 14th century, Queen Isabella of Portugal, known as Saint Isabel, died in Estremoz, which gave the city a spiritual significance.
Estremoz gained fame thanks to the extraction of marble, known as the “white gold of Alentejo”. This marble can be found not only in the city’s buildings, but also in famous monuments in Portugal and the world. For centuries, the city was also an important center of trade and culture, and to this day the fairs held here attract residents and tourists.
Today, Estremoz combines a rich history with the unique atmosphere of a small Portuguese town. Walking through its narrow streets, you can feel the spirit of the past and admire the beauty of local crafts and architecture.
What to see in Estremoz
Estremoz combines rich history, natural beauty and a unique cultural heritage, making it a fascinating place to visit. The Old Town with the castle is situated on a hill and surrounded by walls, and can be explored in 1-2 hours. The newer part of the town is located below, outside the castle walls, where you will find a park, bullfighting arena and the best restaurants. Find out what to see in Estremoz:
Estremoz Castle
The castle dates back to the 13th century, and its white marble tower (Torre das Três Coroas – Three Crowns Tower) is a distinctive landmark. The castle is now a luxury hotel, Pousada Rainha Santa Isabel, named after Queen Saint Elizabeth (Portuguese: Rainha Santa Isabel), who was associated with the city. Part of the hotel and the castle tower can be visited for a small fee. The views from the tower over the surrounding area are priceless, I recommend it.
Castle Square in Estremoz
In front of the castle you will find a square which is also a viewpoint. In the middle of the square you cannot miss Queen St. Elizabeth, her statue made of white marble is an eye-catcher. On the viewpoint there is a large binocular through which you can see the area.
Museum Berardo Estremoz
The Azulejo Museum I fell in love with! The Berardo Estremoz Museum is a joint initiative of the Berardo Collection and the Estremoz City Council. This museum equipment presents what is considered the largest and most important private collection of azulejos in Portugal. The Berardo Museum in Estremoz presents the inaugural exhibition entitled “800 years of history of azulejos” on 3 floors of a renovated palace. I was very impressed by the collection of tiles and the space in which the museum is located. The ticket price includes a glass of wine, which you can drink at the end of the tour.
Address
Website: https://museuberardoestremoz.pt/
Curiosities about Estremoz
Estremoz gained fame thanks to the extraction of marble, called the “white gold of Alentejo“. This marble can be found not only in the buildings of the city, but also in famous monuments of Portugal (the National Palace in Mafra) and the world (Escorial Palace in Spain). The city is part of the so-called “marble triangle” (Triângulo do Mármore), together with the neighboring towns of Borba and Vila Viçosa.
Estremoz is famous for its traditional painted clay figurines, which depict religious, folk and everyday scenes. This unique art has been added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Be sure to visit the Flores sisters’ shop
Where to eat in Estremoz
I recommend you visit the A Talha restaurant, where you can try regional delicacies. We started with olives, sheep’s cheese and a plate of cold cuts. The interior of the restaurant is decorated with large clay amphorae, in which wine was once made. In the context of wine production in the Alentejo region, “vinho da talha” is wine produced using the traditional method of fermentation in such clay vessels. The walls of the restaurant are decorated with posters of bullfights, for which the Alentejo region is famous. For the main course, we ordered arroz de polo (rice with octopus), which I seasoned with hellishly spicy Piri-piri (a spice based on olive oil and hot peppers), and bochechas de porco preto assadas no forno (stewed pork cheeks straight from the oven). Say hello to the owner, Telmo, for me :).
Address of the restaurant A Talha, Estremoz
Where to sleep in Estremoz
1. If you’re dreaming of a truly royal night, be sure to check out accommodations at the Castle at Pousada Rainha Santa Isabel. This luxurious hotel has an outdoor pool and a restaurant and bar set in an old-world setting.
2. Casa Porta do Solis a private cottage in the center of Estremoz offering free WiFi, air conditioning, a kitchenette with a fridge and a bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided.
3. Casas Velhinhasare apartments furnished in an old typical house from Alentejo. Attention to detail and light creates an unforgettable atmosphere of coziness.
4.For those who want to spend time in the bosom of nature, the ideal option is the agritourism property Monte dos Pensamentos (Hill of Thoughts – a poetic name 😉 ), located just 2.3 km from Estremoz. The property offers a swimming pool, a garden, a terrace, free Wi-Fi, as well as garden views. Private parking is available on site. All units feature air conditioning and a flat-screen TV. The property has barbecue facilities and billiards tables. The area is popular for cycling.
Today, Estremoz combines a rich history with the unique atmosphere of a small Portuguese town. Walking through its narrow streets, you can feel the spirit of the past and admire the beauty of local crafts and architecture.
