To see some of the originals visit the town hall or take a trip to Pelegrejinha (10 km to the east) where there is a permanent exhibition in the Casa de Artes.

Overlooked by the ruins of a once impressive 14th century castle the little white washed town of Arraiolos has a 16th century Misericordia containing some excellent examples of azulejos (tiles).

Twenty kilometres to the south is the historic town of Evora, a UNESCO world heritage town.

This impressive fortified town is known as the Portuguese capital of the Renaissance. It attracted architects from all over Europe resulting in a rich architectural heritage. Within the Jardim Publico is the Palacio de Dom Manuel, to whom the Manueline style of architecture is attributed.

The 2nd century Roman temple of Diana with fourteen Corinthian Columns is probably the best preserved in Portugal. Across from the temple the convent church of Sao Joao Evangelista has a fine collection of 18 thcentury "azulejos" and a Manueline altar.

The patronage of the House of Avis between the 14th and 16th centuries, resulted in the building of magnificent palaces and the Jesuit University.

Evora Cathedral (Se) is a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture with an 18th century high altar, and the adjoining museum houses and abundance of interesting artifacts and relics.

Worth a visit is the bizarre 15th century Capela dos Ossos whose walls are covered with the bones of monks.

Approximately twenty kilometres north of Arraiolos is the tiny village of Pavia with a dolmen so large that a little 16th century chapel was built inside it.

The Pousada has 28 standard, 2 superior bedrooms and 2 suites. All rooms are en suite and air conditioned. There is a lift, conference facilites and car park.

The Pousada also has 2 shady cloisters and a beautiful garden. For the more energetic, there is a swimming pool and tennis court.  The area offers good conditions for activities such as canoeing, four wheeldriving, hot air ballooning and cycling.