At the center of Evora lies Praca do Giraldo, the city’s lively main square and traditional meeting place. Surrounded by elegant arcaded buildings, the square reflects the architectural style of the 16th century. In the middle stands a marble fountain from 1570 with eight spouts representing the streets that lead into the square. Named after the medieval knight Geraldo Sem Pavor, who captured Evora from Moorish rule in 1165, the square has long served as the setting for markets, celebrations, and important public events.

From the outside, the Mercado Municipal de Evora reflects the everyday life of the city and its connection to the fertile countryside of the Alentejo region. Built in the 19th century, the market building represents a period when Portuguese cities modernized their public spaces. As the tour passes by, it highlights the importance of agriculture in this region, known for olive oil, cork, vineyards, and traditional products that define the local cuisine.

Walking through one of the quieter streets of the historic center, you will pass Albergaria do Calvario. This area lies close to the medieval walls and shows a more residential side of the old town. The narrow streets and traditional whitewashed houses reflect the character of Evora’s historic neighborhoods, where everyday life developed alongside the city’s grand monuments.

Along Rua do Cano, visitors can clearly see the impressive arches of the Aqueduto da Agua de Prata. Built in the 16th century by architect Francisco de Arruda, the aqueduct carried fresh water into the city from distant springs. One of the most striking sights here is how houses and small shops were later built between the arches, creating a unique streetscape where historic engineering blends with daily urban life.

The historic complex of the University of Evora represents an important academic landmark in the city. Founded in 1559 by the Society of Jesus, the university became one of Portugal’s leading centers of learning. As the tour passes the exterior buildings and courtyards, visitors can appreciate the elegant Renaissance architecture and the important role education has played in shaping Evora’s cultural identity.

One of the most remarkable sights of the tour is the Roman Temple of Evora. Standing on a raised granite platform, its tall Corinthian columns date back to the 1st century AD when the city was a Roman settlement known as Liberalitas Julia. This well-preserved monument is one of the finest Roman remains in the Iberian Peninsula and provides a striking reminder of the city’s ancient origins.

Nearby stands the historic building of the Museu Nacional Frei Manuel do Cenáculo. From the outside, visitors can see how the museum forms part of the historic square shared with the cathedral and Roman temple. Named after the scholar and archbishop Frei Manuel do Cenáculo, the institution reflects the city’s long tradition of preserving art, archaeology, and regional history.

The impressive Evora Cathedral dominates the skyline of the historic center. Built between the late 12th and 13th centuries following the Christian reconquest, the cathedral combines Romanesque strength with early Gothic features. Its granite towers, large façade, and spacious square make it one of the most striking landmarks in the city and an important symbol of Evora’s medieval past.

The tour concludes near the Pousada Convento de Evora, located in the former Convento dos Lóios. This 15th-century religious complex has been carefully preserved and transformed into a historic hotel. From the outside, visitors can admire its traditional architecture and peaceful surroundings, while the nearby Roman temple and cathedral highlight the remarkable concentration of historic monuments in this part of the city.