WHAT TO VISIT IN MONTEMOR-O-NOVO
Culture, nature, and local life in the heart of Alentejo
Montemor-o-Novo is a discreet city at first glance, but deeply rich in history, contemporary culture, nature, and projects with a real impact on the territory. From Gandum Village, it is possible to explore all of this with time, curiosity, and without haste.
Here are some of the places, projects, and events that help explain why Montemor-o-Novo is much more than just a dot on the map.
Historical and cultural heritage
Montemor-o-Novo Castle
Located at the highest point of the city, the castle offers one of the most expansive views of the Alentejo landscape. With medieval origins and Roman and Muslim remains, it was here that Vasco da Gama's voyage to India was prepared. An unmissable place for those who appreciate history, architecture, and outdoor walks.
Open 24 hours · Free admission
Escoural Caves
One of Portugal's most important archaeological sites. With over 50,000 years of history, it preserves Paleolithic cave paintings and engravings, as well as traces of human occupation over thousands of years.
Visits are guided and require prior booking.
Church of Our Lady of the Visitation
Built in the 16th century in Manueline-Moorish style, it is distinguished by its 18th-century tile panels and unique collection of votive offerings. In addition to its religious and artistic value, it offers a striking panoramic view of the city.
Convent of Saint Dominic
Former convent building that houses a diverse museum center, with areas dedicated to archaeology, pottery, ethnography, sacred art, and other testimonies of local history.
Montemor-o-Novo Ethnology Center
A space dedicated to preserving the tangible and intangible heritage of Alentejo, with a special focus on traditional crafts, costumes, ways of life, and popular culture of the region.
Artistic creation and living cultural projects
The Space of Time
A center of excellence in contemporary performing arts, founded by Rui Horta. It hosts artistic residencies, performances, and international projects, with an active program throughout the year.
Convent Workshops
Cultural association dedicated to contemporary artistic creation, with strong links to ceramics, architecture, sound, and sustainability. It is also a UNESCO Center for cultural and territorial enhancement.
Wire Soul
Cultural project focused on puppet theater and performing arts. It organizes shows, training courses, and one of the most important international puppet festivals in Portugal.
Ciranda
Non-profit association dedicated to local crafts and arts. It promotes exhibitions, workshops, and initiatives that highlight the work of artists and artisans from the region.
Casa Branca Cooperative Station
Community initiative that seeks to revitalize the village of Casa Branca through cultural, artistic, and tourism projects, actively involving the local population.
Nature, landscape, and outdoor life
Dams in the region
Minutos Dam – Agricultural infrastructure and natural space popular for hiking and enjoying the scenery.
Pego do Altar Dam – A reservoir surrounded by nature, popular for walks, bird watching, and moments of tranquility.
Freixo do Meio Estate
A nationally recognized agroecological project based on shared management, agroforestry, sustainable food production, and food sovereignty.
Porcus Natura
Project for the sustainable breeding of native breeds, using regenerative practices and experiences linked to conscious food production.
Local life and markets
Montemor-o-Novo Municipal Market
A renovated historic building that retains its function as a traditional market and also hosts cultural, commercial, and social events.
APORMOR
Association of livestock producers in the region, fundamental in organizing the sector and promoting local production.
Municipal Swimming Pools
Outdoor recreational and sports area, widely used during the bathing season, with regular opening hours and a family atmosphere.
Literature and identity: Literary Roadmap Raised from the Ground
A literary trail linking Montemor-o-Novo, Lavre, Évora, and Lisbon, inspired by José Saramago's Levantado do Chão, combining literature, territory, and collective memory.
Seasonal events in Montemor-o-Novo
Throughout the year, the city gains new layers with cultural and popular events:
Festival of Short Stories – Celebrates words, theater, and oral storytelling.
Cidade Preocupada (Concerned City) – Contemporary artistic program promoted by Oficinas do Convento.
Feira da Luz / Expomor – A historic event that brings together tradition, culture, music, and gastronomy.
International Puppet Festival – Shows for all ages, in various venues around the city.
Medieval Fair – Historical reenactment at the Castle (irregular editions).
Soup Festival – Celebration of traditional Alentejo soups.
A place to live, not just visit
Montemor-o-Novo does not reveal itself immediately. It is a place that is discovered with time, curiosity, and attention to detail—exactly the same pace that Gandum Village proposes.
Between heritage, contemporary creation, nature, and projects rooted in the territory, this is a region that invites you to stay another day. Or two. Or to come back.