A pretty riverside town, Mértola is known for being an open air museum that has the power to enchant anyone who meanders down its narrow cobbled alleyways and through its delightful town squares. Whitewashed houses and churches are in abundance and the strong Islamic presence of the Moors remains evident and is highly celebrated. It is this that gives the town its mysterious charm as one feels instantly transported into an old Arab kingdom.
Landscape Mértola, photo by José Manuel
Its parish church was originally a mosque but was converted in the 12th century by the Christian Portuguese who came into power. The church is magnificent and is a mix of the old Arab style and its 16th century Christian remodeling. It is a testament to the way in which religious buildings have been adapted over the centuries in Portugal to accommodate different leaders and religious groups.
Though inhabited during the Roman era it was during the era of Moorish control that the town really came to prominence as it was then deemed the capital of the Arab kingdom. There is now an Islamic Museum in Mértola, which houses a world renowned collection of Muslim artifacts and archaeological findings and also Portugal’s best collection of Islamic art and jewelry. There is even an Arab market held once a year in its streets. A distinctly arty town, it holds regular art workshops to pay homage to and keep alive the regions traditional arts.
More information: visitportugal.com, Alentejo Tourist Office
ATOP members: Alentejo Tourist Office, Castaways Unicorn Holidays, Destination Portugal, Keytel International, Leisure Link Golf Holidays International, Milestones, Pousadas de Portugal, PTG Tours Ltd, Someone2travelwith, Sunvil Discovery, The Villa Agency
