Alcáçovas – Bellmaking, Architecture and Nature

In Alcáçovas, bellmaking and impressive architecture come together with waterside spots and cultural events. Discover the history of bellmaking here, along with ornate architecture: the Paço dos Henriques, churches and museums reveal different facets of the town. When planning your trip, you can combine these cultural insights with nature experiences or the seasonal offerings at the municipal swimming pools.

Cultural Heritage and Architecture in Alcáçovas

The Paço dos Henriques is classified as a Portuguese cultural asset of public interest. The building is associated with the signing of the Treaty of Alcáçovas–Toledo and the Treaty of Terçarias de Moura on 4 September 1479. Today, the Paço is a public venue with exhibition spaces and tourism and cultural projects. Its architectural ensemble includes the Capela de Nossa Senhora da Conceição and the Jardim das Conchas.

Both sites feature Embrechado patterns, incorporating around 26 types of shell as well as tile and glass elements. The garden also has a water circuit that runs from the fountain, through the aqueduct, to the pool. The Igreja Matriz do Salvador offers a different architectural experience. Its rectangular plan encompasses three naves and eight chapels. One serves as the pantheon of the Henriques de Trastâmara, the lords and liege lords of the Vila de Alcáçovas. The chancel stands out for its stone coffered barrel vault, polychrome tiled surfaces, and Mannerist high altar with gilding and polychrome decoration.

Bellmaking, Museums and Local Culture

The Museu do Chocalho houses more than 5,800 bells. The craft has a long history in Alcáçovas: the first documented mention of chocalho production dates to the 19th century. A document published by João Rosa is considered the record that officially established the profession in the town. Around 1890, there were 20 bellmakers working in ten workshops. On 1 December 2015, the making of chocalhos was added to UNESCO’s Lists of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. The Turismo do Alentejo, the Câmara Municipal de Viana do Alentejo and the Junta de Freguesia de Alcáçovas took part in the application.

The Museu Rural da Casa do Povo de Alcáçovas has a different focus: its collection includes folk art depicting rural life, mainly between 1940 and 1960. The annual Feira brings together the traditions of Cante and Fado, Arte Chocalheira, pottery, handicrafts, trade and gastronomy. The Feira highlights Cante Alentejano and Arte Chocalheira as defining elements of the Freguesia and also features concerts, exhibitions, equestrian and bullfighting activities, sports and other entertainment.

Events, Water and Nature

In June, Alcáçovas hosts the Semana Cultural. Its programme includes popular music, Cante Alentejano, talks, food stalls, handicrafts, sports activities and exhibitions. It is organised by the Junta de Freguesia in collaboration with the municipality of Viana do Alentejo and with support from local associations. Along with the Feira, it offers insights into the town’s diverse cultural and social life.

For a stay with a focus on water, the Piscinas Municipais de Alcáçovas has facilities for both summer and winter use. During the swimming season, from June to September, three pools are open to the public for different age groups. In winter, from October to May, regular water activities are held for various age groups. The Parque de Merendas de Vale Tanques is beside a body of water where numerous migratory bird species can be observed; the park also has facilities intended to improve visitors’ comfort.

Nearby, the Convento de N.ª Sr.ª da Esperança stands on the Serra de Alcáçovas, about 3 km north of the Vila. The nearby Fonte Santa can be reached via paths through densely vegetated terrain and is known for the medicinal properties of its water. The municipal fountain is also outside the Vila, about 1 km away. Its whitewashed triangular masonry gable and simple stone basin add another distinctive feature to the architecture around Alcáçovas.

For the main travel overview: Alcáçovas.