Pousada Convento Evora
The monks of the Convent dos Loios were once integral to day-to-day life in Evora. They educated the city’s children, administered basic medical treatment, (such as it was in the 15th century), provided laundry services (to those who could afford them), and created conventual sweets and treats, many of which still exist today.
The order was dissolved in 1834 and their former home fell into disrepair for over a hundred years, before a careful restoration in 1963 saw the building reborn at the Pousada Convento Evora. Built around a two-storey cloister, the lower floor is Manueline in style, with its ornately decorated walls, sumptuous velvet upholstery, and gilt mirrors. The decor on the upper floor is more renaissance, but with gothic touches here and there (particularly in the suites). The thirty-six guest rooms were the monk’s cells, built for function over form – little remains of the original cells, but the conversion means no two ensuite rooms are alike, which adds to the unique character of the hotel. The courtyard cloisters are a peaceful and serene spot where you can escape the midday sun; they also lead you to the outdoor pool and sun terrace when you don’t require shade. The onsite Restaurant Loios prides itself on its regional Alentejo menu; its grand, granite staircase takes you up to the aisles of the cloister, lined with the murals by Brazilian painter Francisco de Figueiredo.
Often referred to as the Museum City, Evora’s wealth of historic landmarks are all a short walk away – the gothic Se Cathedral, the Praca do Giraldo, the Agua de Prata aqueduct, and the macabre Chapel of Bones are all within easy walking distance – and the Templo Romano de Evora, perhaps more commonly known as ‘Diana’s Temple’, stands watch over your hotel’s grand Romanesque entrance.
