Évora. We used the excuse of my birthday to head south and discover Alentejo in the south of Portugal. Although I know Alentejo less than I would love to, I love their easy living, as if there were no clock dictating the rhythm.

And, that’s how we got to two must go places in Evora. Although it was my first time in town I already knew what I wanted to visit. I remember many years ago talking about the Temple of Diana in History classes and so of course, I needed to go there. Plus, I heard about the Bone Chapel in one of my Google skull searches. If you are new here, you have to know that I have this thing with skulls.

Now, talking about the Temple of Diana it is as incredible as I was expecting. Although it is a Roman ruin, it is curious to think of how it was possible to build such a huge temple in the first century. And even if it is known as the Temple of Diana – because of a legend – it is known that it was built in honor of Emperor Augustus, and partially destroyed by the Germanic people who invaded the city in the fifth century.
If you are in Évora, do not miss it because it is very worthwhile (especially for those who love History).

Talking about the Chapel of Bones, I need to tell you: I loved it. But I totally understand it’s not everyone’s cup of tea since the wall of the chapel is all lined with human skeletons. Yes, you read it right: human skeletons.

Built in the seventeenth century by the will of three Franciscan friars, the purpose of the chapel is to demonstrate the fragility of life. Actually, at the entrance, you can read the following sentence “We bones that are here, for yours we wait”. And, it is surprising how the macabre coexists half-walls with a Catholic altar.
You need to pay 4 euros in order to visit the chapel, but I highly recommend it. It’s completely different from anything I’ve ever seen and so that it’s totally worth it.

As we were only an afternoon in Evora we did not have time for much more, but I highly recommend these two places and a stroll through the city streets. Portugal is a very rich country when we talk about History and it’s pretty amazing to enjoy it.