Elvas and its Fortifications
2 hours 20 mins drive from Cascais
Elvas, near the Portuguese border, is a city with a rich history in preserving Portugal’s independence. Visitors are welcomed by the Aqueduct of Amoreira, a 7 km marvel with 843 arches, designed by Francisco de Arruda. Elvas features the world’s largest bulwarked fortification, with star-shaped defenses spanning nearly 10 km, demonstrating military strategies from the 17th to 19th centuries. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city’s fortifications include various historic walls and forts.
In the city’s historic center, highlights include the old Castle, Praça da República, unique churches, and museums like the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Museum of Photography. Elvas today is a tranquil city, offering regional dishes like migas com entrecosto and sweets like the famous ameixas d’Elvas. It’s a perfect destination for those interested in history and cuisine.