Undiscovered Europe
GO OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK IN EUROPE, WITH OUR GUIDE TO SOME OF THE BEST HIDDEN GEMS IN SPAIN, PORTUGAL AND FRANCE
Go off-the-beaten-track in Europe, with our guide to some of the best hidden gems in Spain, Portugal and France
PORTUGAL’S TREASURES
Want to escape the crowds and find a new favourite destination in Portugal? Susana Cardoso, Director for Ireland for the Portuguese Trade and Tourism Board, says you will fall in love with Évora and Coimbra.
ÉVORA
Described as a ‘book of Portuguese art history’ and classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Évora is the capital city of the Alentejo region. Susana says, “the medieval city is an enchanting place to delve into Portugal’s past and the best way to discover Évora is by foot. It has been like a ‘secret destination’ in Portugal. I believe it is time to unveil it for the Irish people!”
Here are Susana’s top cultural things to do in Évora:
» Take a photo at the Roman Temple – “The Roman Temple is one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the Iberian Peninsula and one of the most important landmarks of Évora. The original temple was significantly destroyed by Barbarian raiders in the 5th century, but from that time, what remained has been preserved by being incorporated into other buildings.”
Visit the Cathedral of Évora – “Dedicated to Santa Maria, the Cathedral of Évora was built in the 13th and 14th centuries. This Roman-Catholic church is the largest medieval cathedral in Portugal and has beautiful Romanesque-and-Gothic style architecture.” » Get spooked at the Chapel of Bones – “In the 16th century, Franciscan monks decided cemeteries were taking up valuable land, and so built
the Chapel of Bones in the Royal Church of St Francis to relocate the bones there, which are on display today!” » Wander around
Praça do Giraldo – “This is the main square in Évora. Although it has a gruesome history (it was the focal point for the murderous 16th-century Spanish Inquisitions), Praça do Giraldo is much more charming today. It’s a popular place for tourists to sit at the open-air cáfes and restaurants and embrace the relaxing ambience.”
COIMBRA
Located on the banks of the river Mondego, Coimbra, a medieval city, has the oldest University in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe. “The University of Coimbra is a
World Heritage Site and it is truly incredible,” says Susana.
“Don’t miss the opportunity to enter the gold-covered 18th century Joanina Library at the University, considered one of the most spectacular libraries in the world. Then, there is the ancient St Michael’s Chapel of the University of Coimbra and Salas dos Capelos, the ceremonial hall of the University. If you are brave, climb the 180 steps in the 16th-century tower to the highest point of the University for views of the city.”
Here’s what else you can explore in Coimbra:
» Tour the Gardens – “The Gardens of Quinta das Lágrimas are filled with exotic plant species, some of which are over 200 years old. There’s also a 19th century palace on the grounds and woodlands once used by the Royal family, which are ideal for long walks today. The Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra, approximately a 10-minute drive away, are also worth
visiting. This was founded in 1772 for the University’s medical and history faculties.”
» Stroll through the Alta (Old) Quarter
– “This is where the University, the Old Cathedral of Coimbra and Santa Cruz Monastery are located. The old town is situated on the hill of Alacova and access to the town is gained via a maze of narrow, picturesque streets.”
» Have fun at Portugal dos Pequenitos
– “For some child-friendly inspiration, visit this theme park. There are kid-sized scale models of Coimbra and Portugal’s most-famous monuments for children to crawl inside and enjoy!”
» Eat traditional dishes
– “There are many great eateries to try in Coimbra. Praxis Restaurant Coimbra is home to some of Coimbra’s best beers and is the city’s leading brewery. Refeitro da Baixa Restaurant is located in Terreiro da Erva and does traditional Portuguese cuisine and wines. Leitão à Bairrada is a suckling pig dish and at Mealhada, nearby Coimbra, you will find a unique set of restaurants specialising in suckling pig: a true Portuguese love.”