Located at the highest point in the city, Montemor-o-Novo Castle offers breathtaking views over the Alentejo landscape. With medieval origins and Roman and Muslim remains, it was the scene of important historical moments, such as the preparation for Vasco da Gama's voyage to India. Ideal for those who like history, culture and outdoor walks.

Open 24 hours / Free entry

The Escoural Cave is one of the most important archaeological sites in Portugal. With over 50,000 years of history, it houses prehistoric cave paintings and engravings and traces of human occupation dating back to the Paleolithic period.

The tours are guided and require prior booking, offering a unique experience for those who want to immerse themselves in prehistory and get to know this exceptional heritage up close.

The Visitaçao church was built in the 16th century in the Manueline-Moorish style.

This beautiful church has beautiful 18th century tile panels inside, alluding to the life of the Virgin Mary. In the sacristy there is a collection of more than 200 ex-votos, altarpieces, photographs, wax objects and two embalmed animals, one of which dates back to 1799.

In addition to its religious value, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view over Montemor-o-Novo - ideal for those who appreciate culture, history and spirituality.

Espaço do Tempo is an artistic structure of reference in the contemporary performing arts. Founded in 2000 by the well-known Rui Horta, it hosts residencies, presentations and creative projects with national and international artists. With an active program, it is committed to innovation, sustainability and the internationalization of artistic creation.

Ciranda is a non-profit association in Montemor-o-Novo that promotes local crafts and art. It organizes exhibitions, workshops and events, such as the "Espaço Artesanato" at the Feira da Luz, highlighting the work of the region's artists and craftspeople.

This former convent building houses an important museum run by the Group of Friends of Montemor-o-Novo. Highlights include the archaeology museum and the pottery, sacred art, ethnography and bullfighting rooms, among other interesting exhibits.

A 70-year-old building of great architectural value. After renovation, this space now has the privileged conditions to satisfy the functions associated with the so-called traditional market, simultaneously hosting economic activities and also with the aptitude to be a multipurpose and multifunctional space, ensuring conditions for the organization of events, be they cultural, commercial, recreational or social.

The Ethnology Center - Local Museum of Montemor-o-Novo gathers and displays part of the material and immaterial collection (costumes, fashions, uses and customs of professions that are now extinct or on the verge of extinction), linked to the traditional arts and crafts of the Alentejo, from local folklore groups.

MINUTE DAM

An important supply and irrigation infrastructure, with a large reservoir that supports local agriculture. In addition to its practical function, it is also a leisure space appreciated by nature lovers, offering a peaceful landscape and ideal for outdoor activities. A place of environmental and strategic value in the municipality of Montemor-o-Novo.

PEGO DO ALTAR DAM

Pego do Altar is a reservoir in the Montemor region, built for agricultural purposes and energy production. Surrounded by natural scenery, it is now also a popular spot for hiking, bird watching and outdoor recreation. A peaceful space of great environmental value.

Oficinas do Convento is a cultural association dedicated to artistic creation and experimentation. It works in the areas of visual arts, ceramics, architecture and sound, promoting residencies, workshops and projects linked to sustainability and local heritage.

It is also a UNESCO Center for cultural and territorial appreciation.

Alma d'Arame is a cultural association dedicated to puppet theater and the performing arts. It promotes shows, training and the International Puppetry Meeting, enhancing artistic creation, education and community involvement in the Alentejo.

The Casa Branca Cooperative Station, in Santiago do Escoural, is a collaborative initiative that aims to revitalize the village through cultural, artistic and tourist activities. Founded in 2021, the cooperative involves the local community in the rehabilitation of abandoned heritage, promoting the social and cultural regeneration of the region.

The Levantado do Chão Literary Route provides a network of routes linking Montemor-o-Novo to Évora and Lisbon, as well as points of interest aimed at revealing the main historical references in Levantado do Chão, as well as biographical aspects about the author José Saramago and his stay in Lavre. At the same time, the itinerary makes available and promotes the existing tourist offer in the municipalities of Montemor-o-Novo, Évora and Lisbon.

Porcus Natura is a sustainable project that raises indigenous breeds such as the Alentejo pig and Angus cattle, using regenerative farming practices. The products are sold directly to the consumer, with an emphasis on quality and sustainability, and they also offer tours and gastronomic experiences.

The Montemor-o-Novo Municipal Recreational Pools are a recreational and sporting aquatic space. They are open during the bathing season and close weekly on Sundays and Mondays:

Tuesday to Friday: 11:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Saturdays and public holidays: from 10 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.

Created in 1996, the Sociedade Agrícola do Freixo do Meio manages the Montado do Freixo do Meio using an agroecological model and shared management. It promotes autonomous projects such as Mel da Família Abel and agroforestry, seeking to create a resilient, autonomous community aligned with the principles of agroecology and food sovereignty.

Created in 1990, APORMOR was founded to support livestock producers in the Montemor-o-Novo region, promoting collective organization to defend their interests in a competitive market. The association seeks to improve the marketing of livestock products, facing challenges such as the complexity of commercial circuits and the seasonality of production, which affects prices throughout the year.

Festival dos Contos - A festival that celebrates the diversity of the word, featuring short story shows, theater, music, poetry and the participation of special artists.

This year, the festival ran from May 15 to 17 with the theme: "How many "I's" are there in me?", with the participation of artists such as Carles García Domingo, Maria Caetano Vilalobos and António Fontinha.

Admission is free, making the festival accessible to everyone.

Cidade Preocupada is a cultural event in Montemor-o-Novo and Casa Branca, promoted by Oficinas do Convento. The 2025 edition will take place from June 23 to 29, offering a diverse program of music, theater, cinema, workshops and exhibitions. The event transforms the city into a space for contemporary artistic expression, inviting the community and visitors to participate in an immersive way.

Admission is free.

Feira da Luz / Expomor is an annual reference event in the Alentejo, held in Montemor-o-Novo, which celebrates the culture, tradition and modernity of the region. With roots dating back to the 15th century, the fair combines music, gastronomy, exhibitions, livestock competitions, sports and recreational activities, workshops and much more.

This year, the event will take place between August 28th and September 2nd.

An annual festival that celebrates the art of puppetry with shows, theater, music and performances by artists from various countries. Held in various venues around the city, it promotes freedom, diversity and reflection on what unites us as human beings. A meeting open to all ages, in an atmosphere of sharing and cultural celebration.

This year, it will take place between May 23rd and June 1st.

Over the years, Montemor-o-Novo Castle has been the ideal setting for medieval fairs that recreate the atmosphere of the time with music, costumes and ancient traditions. These initiatives, which take place from time to time, bring life and charm to the city's historic heritage. Although they don't happen every year, we're all looking forward to the next edition, ready to relive the medieval magic.

The Montemor-o-Novo Soup Festival takes place every year in November, celebrating the region's traditional soups. The festival offers a variety of typical soups, traditional music, cultural exhibitions and tastings of local wines.

Admission is free.