Marble Towns

The marble town, the Bragança ducal palace and the potters of Redondo.

A day among the marble towns of the Alentejo: it begins in Estremoz, with its Saturday market, continues to the Ducal Palace of the Bragança family in Vila Viçosa and ends at the potteries of Redondo, where clay is still painted by hand. Entry fees are paid separately. For lovers of history, crafts and good food.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Estremoz

   Estremoz is the marble town: you see it in doorsteps, pavements and even house walls. At the top stands the castle keep, beside the pousada hotel, with views over the plain. Down below, on Saturday mornings, the main square fills with the market, selling cheese, cured meats, pottery and antiques. Look out for the Estremoz clay figurines, a tradition recognised by UNESCO. Get to the market early, when there is the most choice.

2. 

   2

   Vila Viçosa

   Vila Viçosa is the town of the Dukes of Braganza, and the Ducal Palace, with its long marble façade facing the square, is the main visit. Inside are rooms with painted ceilings, tapestries, kitchens hung with copper pans and the apartments of Portugal's last royal family. The tour is guided and paid separately. Around it, the streets have grand houses and churches, and the marble quarries are close by. Leave time for a coffee in the square and a convent sweet.

3. 

   3

   Redondo

   Redondo is an Alentejo town of white houses with coloured trim, near the Serra d'Ossa, known for its potteries. Potters still shape the clay and hand-paint plates, jugs and large wine jars, and many workshops sell directly to passers-by. In some summers, the Ruas Floridas festival fills the centre with paper flowers made by the residents. It is wine country too, with cellars all around. Shopping and tastings are paid separately. Ask at the workshops whether you can watch a potter at work.

The essentials

Duration

8 h · Full day · Estremoz market on Saturdays

Pick-up

At your hotel. The final price depends on where you are staying; we confirm it when you tell us.

Included

The car and the driver, only for your group, tolls and water.

Not included

Entrance tickets and meals.

Who it is for

History and craft lovers.

The route