Mertola is an ancient town located on the Guadiana River in eastern Alentejo, about an hour and a half's drive north of our villa. It's connection with the Mediterranean meant that the Phoenicians were among the early settlers, along with Greeks, Romans, Islamic people, as well as Christians. It's castle, built on a prominent ridge overlooking the river, has been restored beginning in the 1960s, and archeological digs are on-going. The white church just below the keep was originally a mosque, much like the Mezquita in Córdoba, Spain, but on a smaller scale.
Next to the Tourist Information Center is a small house that was inhabited until the 1980s, and a weaving room with sample looms and woven work. The town itself is incredibly well-kept, the people friendly, and the traditional food we sampled at an outdoor restaurant, delicious. Although there were not many tourists around today, we were told that the town receives over 30,000 visitors a year-amazing for a place quite far off the beaten path. A great place to spend a sunny, warm day.
Sent from my iPad.
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