Açorda

Evoramonte, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

Açorda is a typical Portuguese dish, especially from the Alentejo region, made from bread, garlic, cilantro, poached egg, olive oil, water and salt.  Other things can be added such as codfish, as can be seen in this picture, other types of fish or shrimp.

It was my first time trying this dish in Evoramonte at a family run Restaurant called A Convenção.  The staff was more than kind with me and I think quite surprised that I ate every last drop and crumb!  You might think that the bowl doesn't look that big, but what you don't see in the picture is the self-serve pot they set on my table where two more bowls just like this one fit!  Needless to say, I loved it!

The fortified town of Evoramonte

 Evoramonte, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

This medievel town is definitely worth a visit.  I highly recommend strolling its one street from start to finish, having lunch at its wonderful restaurant, visiting the inside of the castle and climbing its three floors to check out the views of the town below as well as the magnificent Alentejo countryside all around you.  I guarantee you won't be disappointed!

This picture is taken from the top of the castle. 

Castle of Evoramonte

Evoramonte, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

After the Christians took over this area from the Moors in the 12th century, the castle of Evoramonte was built to protect the area from other invasions.  Set at almost 500 meters on a hill, this castle dates back to the year 1306, but was rebuilt after an earthquake in 1531.  The Italian Renaissance style influenced in its construction; however, the sculpture of strands of rope dividing the three floors of the castle and the knot tied in the middle are characteristic of Manueline (Portuguese late Gothic) style architecture.

Monte alentejano

Evoramonte, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

Set among cork-oak plantations and olive groves are the montes alentejanos, a term which refers to the house and other buildings on an extensive piece of rural property.  This is a common sight to see when traveling throughout the region of Alentejo.

This picture is taken from the top of the castle of Evoramonte.  All that can be seen is a carpet of green for miles and miles, something I never get tired of seeing!