About Montemor-o-Novo
Between Lisbon and Spain, at the hub of the axis connecting the centre and south of the country, Montemor-o-Novo is one of the most traversed yet least known places in Portugal.
It is time to discover this enchanting town. Its charm is born from the simplicity through which the present is experienced, from the force of the past which it evokes, from the imagination which a first look arouses. The memory of ancestral religious orders and rural nobility lives serenely with the present.
Montemor is distinguished by beautiful 17th-century manor houses, several convents (some restored for new functions), and churches displaying Manueline doorways, rich Baroque altars, and unforgettable frescos and tiles. Most importantly, this is the birthplace of Sao Joao de Deus (Saint John of God), founder of the Brothers Hospitallers.
The City
Convent of Sao Joao de Deus
Renovated to house the Municipal Library, Historical Archives, and Municipal Gallery. To the right stands the Crypt of Sao Joao de Deus and the Parish Church (Igreja Matriz). In the crypt, you will learn about Montemor's dedication to the saint who was born here. The Parish Church contains an extraordinarily beautiful original fresco covering the vault of the nave.
Church of Misericordia
The Terreiro de Sao Joao de Deus is dominated by the statue of the saint and the facade of the Parish Church. In front stands the magnificent Manueline Doorway of the Misericordia Church. Inside, admire the vein-like tracery of the vaulting, curious 17th-century altarpieces on the side altars, the Sala do Despacho, and the 18th-century organ fashioned by Italian master D. Pascoal Caetano Olduvini. Don't miss the exquisite Pieta, a fine 15th-century work in marble.
Church of Calvario
Wholly restored, the church still retains from the 17th century its carved wooden side altars, the "dressing room," and the crucifix. It currently serves as home to the altarpiece from the Chapel of Sao Pedro.
Convent of Sao Domingos
This convent houses the Archaeological Museum, well worth spending time in. The collection traces the region's history from prehistoric times through the medieval period.
Convent of Sao Francisco
Originally the Chapel of Our Lady of Grace in 1495, today it houses the Cultural Arts Association. The building reflects the transition from medieval to Renaissance styles.
Convent of Saudacao (Salutation)
Dating from the 16th to 19th centuries, this is considered the monument of greatest artistic value in the town. Visit the Portaria (entrance hall), clad in tiles dating from 1651, and the beautiful Claustros (cloisters). Through the arch into the garden, you'll find the Church of Santiago, the Torre da Ma Hora (Tower of the Bad Hour) or Keep, and the Porta do Sol (Gateway of the Sun).
The Castle
Explore the castle at your leisure. Enter by way of the Porta da Vila (Town Gate), next to the Casa da Guarda (Guardhouse). With some care, climb up the steps to the Torre do Relogio (Clock Tower). From this point on the walls, you have a unique view of the ruins of the Paco dos Alcaides, which served as lodgings for various monarchs and where the Court used to meet.
Within the castle walls, discover:
- Guard House and Clock Tower
- Town Portal and Tomb Niches
- Church of Santiago (St. James)
- Tower of the Bad Hour (Keep)
- Church of Sao Joao Baptista (St. John the Baptist)
- Palace of Alcaides (Royal Palace ruins)
- Ruins of St. Maria do Bispo Church
- Tower and Doorway of the Angel
More to See
Chapel of Sao Pedro de Ribeiro
Dating from the 16th to 18th centuries, this chapel is essential to visit for its murals and, in particular, the Gothic-style fresco behind the altar representing St. Peter with a succession of agricultural scenes. If you look carefully, you will discover the strange figure of an elephant!
Fonte de Letras
Now an exhibition gallery and cafe, this restored fountain area offers a pleasant stopping point while exploring the town.
Getting There
Montemor-o-Novo is located about 100 km east of Lisbon, easily accessible via the A6 motorway. The town sits at the crossroads between Lisbon and Spain, making it a natural stopping point for travellers.
Facilities
The town offers a park with public baths, tennis club, town market, and tourist office to assist visitors in exploring this historic Alentejo gem.
