The Castle of Elvas (Castelo de Elvas) in Eastern Portugal has an interesting history. It was never a royal residence, but was a frontier garrison which witnessed battles and sieges over its long history. There was once a Roman garrison here and later the Muslim forces who occupied the region until the 12th century built a fortress on the site of the present day fortifications. They left in 1230 and from then onwards, this strategically important fortress, close to the Spanish border, was fought over heavily during the 12th and 13th centuries and subject to significant...
The Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Consolação (Church of Our Lady of Consolation) is one of Elvas’s hidden treasures. Set in the charming little square of Largo de Santa Clara the church doesn’t look particularly interesting from the outside, but step indoors and the interior will take your breath away. The walls, pillars and ceiling are covered with stunning 17th century patterned tiles, and there are three ornate gilt altars, dedicated to St Dominic, John the Baptist and St Thomas Aquinas.
The church has an interesting history. The mysterious Knights Templar...
Set amidst the arid plains that form the border between Portugal and Spain is the uniquely well-preserved historic frontier town of Elvas. A mere 12km (7 miles) from the Spanish border and just across the river Guadiana from the city...
Albufeira
Cascais
