Alvito

Alvito lies in the Alentejo, where its fortified palace recalls the power of the barons who held the town. Afonso V made João Fernandes da Silveira baron of Alvito in 1475, and work on the castle followed at the turn of the century. Its square plan and towers combine military features with the comforts of a noble residence. Gothic forms stand alongside Manueline windows and Mudéjar decoration, including horseshoe arches that reveal the varied artistic traditions of the region.