Estremoz
- Population 9,000.
- Known for its fine marble and earthenware.
- Walled upper town rises 420 meters from the Alentejo Plain.
- Situated south east of Lisbon, in the Alentejo between Evora and Elvas.
Estremoz, along with the nearby towns of Borba and Vila Viçosa, is the center of the marble quarrying area of the Alentejo Plain.
Located 48 km from Evora, Estremoz is a relaxing town to wander and enjoy the beautiful marble buildings and the views of the plain below.
Marble from Estremoz was used in construction all over Portugal and even further afield. Indeed, much of the marble used in the construction of the Escorial Palace in Spain was transported up the Tagus.
Estremoz is made up of upper and lower towns. The newer, Lower Town is surrounded by a 17th century wall and is centered on the huge Rossio Marquês de Pombal square, simply referred to as "Rossio" by the locals. The large Saturday market takes places around the square selling local pottery, goats cheese, pickled plums.
The 18th century Câmara Municipal (Town Hall) is on the south side of Rossio and was once a convent, though it now houses the police station; the Igreja de São Francisco (Church of St. Francis) is on the northern side of the square. A small Museu Rural displaying the famed local earthenware is on the east side of Rossio.
The Upper Town is enclosed by fine zigzagging fortifications and is the most historic part of Estremoz. At its center is the bare fortress-like palace built by Dom Dinis for his wife Isabel of Aragon in the 13th century. The building was restored in the 18th century and is now a high-end pousada - the Pousada Castelo de Estremoz with 33 rooms, a pool & garden and some beautiful views. This hotel comes very highly recommended.
The palace was almost completely destroyed by an explosion in the arsenal in 1698 but the Torre das Três Coroas (Tower of Three Crowns) survived - the name refers to the hands of three kings in the tower's construction: Sancho II, Afonso III and Dom Dinis.
Opposite the tower is the Museu Municipal (Tel: 268 339 200) housed in a converted almshouse with displays of furniture, wooden figures and, of course, the celebrated Estremoz pottery.
The Capela de Santa Isabel (Chapel of Saint Isabel) dates from 1659 and was dedicated to Queen Isabel, who was known for her charity to the poor. The chapel is lined with beautiful azulejos depicting the Queen's life.
The main festival in Estremoz is the Feira Internacional de Artesenato e Agro-Pecuaria de Estremoz (Fiape) in late April/early May with an open-air food and livestock market plus pottery exhibitions.
Estremoz Tourist Office
Largo da República 26 (tel. 268 333 541)
Getting to Estremoz
Train Travel in Portugal
The railway no longer runs to Estremoz and the disused station is now the site of the bus station.
Car Travel in Portugal
Around two hours plus by car from Lisbon on the A2 and the A6 highways. From Elvas or Spain (Badajoz), take the A6/E90.
Bus Travel in Portugal
The bus station is on Avenida 9 de Abril.
There are buses to Sete Rios bus terminal in Lisbon, Evora bus station in Evora and Portalegre.
Portugal Hotel & Hostel Accommodation
Featured Hotel
Pousada de Santa Rainha; 33 luxurious rooms in a converted palace
Book the Pousada Castelo de Estremoz (formerly the Pousada de Santa Rainha)
Book Hotel Accommodation in Estremoz
Albergaria Monte Da Rosada Hotel
Pateo Dos Solares Hotel - upmarket hotel in a converted manor house.
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Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, Tramcars, and Yellow Boat River Tour
Eating
Gadanha Mercearia is a Michelin-recommended spot known for creative and refined takes on traditional Alentejo dishes. The cozy atmosphere, with a blend of grocery and eatery, enhances the experience of their delicious plates, like pork tenderloin and signature desserts.
A Cadeia Quinhentista, located in a former jail, provides a memorable dining experience with historic ambiance and a varied menu. Highlights include Alentejo-style lamb and black pork, all served in a charming setting.
Venda Azul is known for its generous portions and rustic charm, Venda Azul offers traditional Portuguese dishes, with standout items like grilled cod and pork secrets. The friendly service and authentic local vibe make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors alike.
Howard's Folly is a modern wine bar and restaurant that combines Portuguese and international flavors, making it perfect for wine lovers. The beautifully curated menu pairs well with the restaurant's own wines, crafted from regional grapes.
Casa do Gadanha serves Italian and Portuguese fusion dishes with hearty options like risottos, pastas, and slow-cooked meats. The relaxed setting and carefully prepared dishes make it a top dining spot in Estremoz.
São Rosas
Largo de D. Dinis, 11
Restored medieval inn
Tel. 268 333 345
Drinking
There are many decent cafes and bars surrounding Rossio for good-value food and drinks.
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Cafes
There are places to get online around Rossio. Your hotel will most likely have Wifi.
The average high June temperatures for Portugal is between 22 degrees Centigrade and 26 degrees Centigrade.
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