Loule - Beja - Mertola

Route: Faro - Loule - Beja - Mertola - Faro
Duration: 10 h
The first stop of our tour will be at Loulé which is a traditional Portuguese market town. Visitors are drawn to Loule, for its characterful historic centre, the lively market and genuine Portuguese atmosphere. The focal point of Loule is the Arabic inspired covered market, with stalls selling regional handicrafts, local produce and freshly caught fish. Surrounding the market are busy shopping streets, tree-lined plazas and a warren of alleys, which have barely altered since the medieval period. Within this delightful historic centre, is an ancient castle, the Gothic Igreja Matriz church and remnants of Loule’s solid defences. Loule is a peaceful and unhurried town. The next stop of our tour will be at Beja where in an atmosphere of peace and discover stories of conquests and lost loves. We begin with a visit to the Torre de Menagem (the Keep) of the Castle, which was so important in the battles to defend Portugal's borders. With its 40 metres of height and built entirely of marble, it is the landmark of Beja. It is worth your while to climb to the top, from which you can see the city and the surrounding countryside of the Alentejo. Close by is the Santiago Church, the Cathedral and the Santo Amaro Church, where the Visigothic collection of the Regional Museum is located. Following along Rua D. Manuel and after passing in front of the University, a building that was formerly a hospital, we arrive in the heart of the city, the Praça da República. Around us are the buildings of the Manueline style, which add a special note to the square, which also has a pillory of the 16th century as well, and the Misericórdia Church, a major Renaissance work. Then we follow the Rua do Touro and come to the Jorge Vieira Museum, named for a prominent Portuguese sculptor of the 20th century, who is noted for his figures in terracotta. The last stop in the tour we will visit to Mértola which is a beautiful Alentejo village surrounded by the Guadiana River, which gives it a unique character. Steeped in history and traces of several people who passed by, we will visit the various centers of the Mértola Museum. From the Roman House to the Islamic Art Center, passing by the Castle … You will see pieces with thousands of years in perfect condition.During our journey we can admire the natural beauty of the village, always looking to the Guadiana river, typical streets and alleys that lead us to other era. You will see Mértola Museum, Roman House,Islamic Art Centre, Castle of Mértola. After we will return to Faro.
Price: per person