The Iconic Roman Temple of Diana

To plan your trip, review Lonely Planet Évora Guide.

To plan your trip, review Historic Centre of Évora.

Travelers can see these ruins for free at any time of the day. The site is one of the most preserved Roman structures in the Iberian Peninsula. You can easily learn how to see the Roman Temple of Évora on foot from the main square. The temple stands tall near the Évora Cathedral and the Loios Convent.

We recommend visiting the temple during the golden hour for the best photos. The sunset light makes the granite columns glow with a warm orange hue. There are small benches nearby where you can sit and admire the view. It is a peaceful spot to start your morning walk through the city.

• Location: Largo do Conde de Vila Flor
• Cost: Free to view from the exterior
• Best time: Early morning or sunset for photos
• Nearby: Évora Cathedral and Museum

Walking Along the Ancient Roman Walls

Évora is famous for its well-preserved defensive walls that surround the old city. The first set of walls was built by the Romans in the third century. These walls protected the city of Liberalitas Julia from invading forces. You can still see Roman masonry at the base of the later medieval walls.

A walk along the perimeter is a great way to understand the city's layout. Many sections of the history of Roman walls in Évora are visible near the public gardens. Look for the large, rectangular stones that indicate Roman construction. These foundations have supported the city for nearly two thousand years.

The path along the walls is flat and easy for most travelers to walk. You will pass through quiet residential areas and beautiful green spaces. It takes about one hour to walk the most significant sections of the wall. This route offers a unique perspective on how the city grew over the centuries.

The Hidden Roman Baths at City Hall

One of the most surprising Roman spots is located inside the Évora City Hall. Workers discovered these ancient baths during a renovation project in 1987. They are part of the old Roman forum that once stood in the city center. You can see the remains of the laconicum, which was a circular steam bath.

The baths are open to the public during normal business hours on weekdays. Entrance is free, but you must enter the Paços do Concelho building to see them. A glass floor allows you to look down at the ancient heating system. It is a fascinating example of Roman engineering and daily life.

The site includes a large circular pool that was used for hot baths. You can also see the brick structures that once supported the raised floors. This hidden gem is often missed by tourists who stay on the main streets. It is located just a short walk from Giraldo Square.

Roman Artifacts in the Évora Museum

The Museum of Évora is the perfect place to see Roman art and daily objects. It is located right next to the Roman Temple in a former bishop's palace. The museum houses a massive collection of artifacts found during local excavations. You will find impressive marble statues and intricate floor mosaics here.

The ground floor features several large Roman tombstones and architectural fragments. These pieces tell the story of the people who lived in Évora long ago. We suggest walking from the temple to the museum to complete your history tour. The transition between the outdoor ruins and indoor exhibits is very smooth.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, usually from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Tickets cost about 4 Euros for adults, but discounts are available for seniors. It provides excellent context for the best Roman architecture walking spots in Évora. Plan to spend at least one hour exploring the Roman galleries.

Foundations of the Água de Prata Aqueduct

The Água de Prata Aqueduct is a massive structure that brings water to the city. While the current arches were built in the 1500s, they follow a Roman route. The original Roman aqueduct supplied water to the baths and fountains of the forum. You can see the start of the Água de Prata Aqueduct trail just outside the walls.

Walking along the aqueduct is a refreshing way to see the Alentejo countryside. The trail follows the stone arches for several kilometers into the hills. Within the city, you can see houses built directly into the arches of the aqueduct. This clever use of space is a highlight for many visitors.

The walk is mostly flat and follows a well-marked dirt path outside the city. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water if you plan to walk the full trail. In 2026, this remains one of the most popular outdoor activities in Évora. It combines engineering history with the natural beauty of the region.