Évora | A Secret Journey Through Millennia

| A Secret Journey Through Millennia. Heading south from Sintra lies a forgotten ancient city frozen in time — Évora. This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Portugal is where Roman ruins collide with medieval churches at every corner, offering endless photogenic moments that transport you through history! Location: Évora, Portugal (about 130 km from Lisbon). ⛪ Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos) Opening hours: 9:00-18:00 (April-October); 9:00-17:00 (November-March), last entry at 16:30. Highlights: The world’s most haunting "art of death"! This 16th-century chapel is entirely lined with human bones—around 5,000 skeletons of monks meticulously arranged. The chilling inscription at the entrance reads: "We bones await yours," sending shivers down your spine. The bones form eerie yet solemn patterns like hearts and crosses, adorned with golden motifs. Photo spots: Stand at the chapel’s center for a mysterious silhouette against the bone-covered walls (flash photography prohibited); capture the impactful entrance inscription from a low angle. ⛪ Évora Cathedral (Sé de Évora) Opening hours: 9:00-18:00 (summer); 9:00-17:00 (winter). Highlights: Portugal’s largest Gothic cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, with a spire piercing the sky and weathered stone carvings. Inside, discover a gem-studded golden altar, 15th-century stained glass casting rainbow light, and a Renaissance royal tomb with intricate marble reliefs. Climb the bell tower for panoramic views of Évora’s red-tiled rooftops. Photo spots: The Gothic rose window at the facade, backlit by sunlight; the golden altar shot with a wide-angle lens to emphasize the vaulted ceiling. 🏛 Roman Temple of Évora (Templo Romano de Évora) Opening hours: 9:00-18:30 (summer); 9:00-17:30 (winter). Highlights: The best-preserved Roman ruins on the Iberian Peninsula! Built in the 1st century AD, its 14 Corinthian columns stand tall, their fluted shadows creating a timeless aura. Nestled among houses, stumbling upon these massive columns feels like a surreal time warp. Photo spots: Morning light for full-temple shots with elongated shadows; dramatic low-angle shots from below the columns. 📌 Tips: The Chapel of Bones is tiny—arrive early to avoid queues (20+ mins in peak season). The Roman Temple is magically lit at night; revisit after dinner for moody shots. Wear comfy flats—Évora’s cobblestone alleys are unforgiving (learn from my boot-wearing mistake!).