Tips 1 - 7 of 7 Monsaraz Things to Do
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Things To Do: Porta da Vila
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The main entrance to Monsaraz is done by the “Porta da Vila” (Village Door): a door on the walls, which is surrounded by 2 towers. One of them has a bell with an inscription dated from 1692. When you enter, notice the marble sign above the door, which talks about King João IV and the dedication he made to Conception (1646).
But before entering the door, don’ forget to enjoy the fantastic views you may get from here. They are breathtaking!
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Things To Do: Parish church
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The parish church is situated about half way between the entrance door and the castle. On the outside it is a simple white church with azulejos (tiles), but it is worth having a look inside (no photos allowed and there is a lady there making sure no one disrespects rules; also for any doubt talk to her, she might be useful.)
The actual church we visit nowadays dates back to the 16th century; it was built on top of the 13th century church that existed there previously. Whether it was the first one or the actual one, on this place it has always been Monsaraz’s parish church (Monsaraz was once the main village on the county).
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Things To Do: Mercy Hospital
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Also on the small church square there are a few other buildings worth mentioning: the pillory, situated by the church’s stairs and the hospital (building across the church).
The hospital is an interesting building with a sign saying that this is Monsaraz’s Mercy Hospital. Nowadays it doesn’t seem to work as a hospital any longer, but what struck my attention was the size of the hospital, which seems so small compared to the ones who are used to see nowadays. The fact that the small village of Monsaraz has (or had) a hospital reinforces the idea that this medieval village was once of great importance to this region.
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Things To Do: The castle
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The main must see of Monsaraz is its castle. It is a small castle with a bullring inside and the usual Tower. From there you enjoy magnificent views over the surrounding plains and lakes and also over the village.
The castle was built in the 14th century (some say it is a typical example of the military architecture of the 14th century) as well as the Tower. Before the actual castle, there was a fortification on this place which was conquered on the 12th century.
The castle may be visited free of charge; be careful with the steep metal stairs and with the unprotected path along the walls.
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Things To Do: Arena
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The arena situated inside the castle works on specific occasions along the year as a bullring; it is mainly used during the feasts which occur in August and bring thousands of visitors to the village.
The arena is situated on the middle of the castle and it is shaped as an amphitheater; what is nowadays the arena used to be the place where the arms were kept. While walking along the path on the inner side of the castle’s walls it is possible to watch the place where they keep bulls when there is a bullfight.
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Things To Do: Small streets
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Wondering through the narrow streets of Monsaraz is one of my favourite activities each time I visit this village. The side streets are so pleasant to visit and observe the small houses, built side by side and with backyards where inhabitants proceed with their peaceful daily life. If visiting these streets, notice that some houses seem to be built to top of huge rocks.
Some of these streets are very steep and built in stones, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. But it will surely be worth the effort, as some of them will lead you to the walls surrounding the village on top of the hill which provide breathless landscapes.
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Things To Do: View
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The view from Monsaraz to the surrounding plains and lakes is fantastic. While in Monsaraz, be sure not to miss the views from:
- the entrance door: before entering the main door to the village, there are a few spots from which you may enjoy a breathtaking view, both over the planted fields and lakes, as well as over the neighboring villages.
- the castle: being on a higher spot, there is a wonderful 360º view to everything that surrounds Monsaraz, including the village itself.
Some allude to Monsaraz as the balcony to the Alqueva lakes.
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 Comments for micas_pt about Monsaraz | | | | |
vesna04 Sun Oct 9, 2005 17:08 UTC
Fantastic !!! You and Nat (ncfg) will make me come to PT very soon :) | SOLODANCER Thu Aug 25, 2005 20:52 UTC
Kudos, I love that you're building up your page on Portugal, a most revered place for me as well. Love the fotos. I will do my share especially on Lisboa, my favorite of all cities, when I get my own fotos - my act together! Thanks. | HORSCHECK Wed Feb 9, 2005 20:40 UTC
Another page with fabulous photos and a brilliant postcard. Keep up the good work ... :o) | globerover Mon Feb 7, 2005 17:09 UTC
great pics, in particular the sunset at the lake and the view from the castle ... and: great to read that the bullfights in Portugal are more civilized than in Spain :-)) |
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on Dec 21, 2004
