The restoration of this Pousada was under the direction of the famous Architect Jose Paulo dos Santos. He has achieved perfect harmony between traditional and modern concepts of Portuguese architecture successfully combining the austerity of a convent with todays' standards of comfort.

The nearby town of Arraiolos is renowned worldwide for its magnificent hand woven carpets originally based on Persian designs. The Arraiolos carpets are more colourful and primitive in style and can be purchased at numerous outlets in the town.

To see some of the originals visit the town hall or take a trip to Pelegrejinha (10 km to the east) where there is a permanent exhibition in the Casa de Artes.

Overlooked by the ruins of a once impressive 14th Century castle the little white washed town of Arraiolos has a 16th Century Misericordia (hospital) containing some excellent examples of azulejos (tiles).

Twenty kilometres to the south is the historic town of Evora, a UNESCO world heritage town.

This impressive fortified town is known as the Portuguese capital of the Renaissance. It attracted architects from all over Europe resulting in a rich architectural heritage. Within the Jardim Publico is the Palacio de Dom Manuel, to whom the Manueline style of architecture is attributed.

The 2nd Century Roman temple of Diana with 14 Corinthian Columns is probably the best preserved in Portugal. Across from the temple the Convent Church of Sao Joao Evangelista has a fine collection of 18th Century "azulejos" and a Manueline altar.

The patronage of the House of Avis, between the 14th and 16th Centuries, resulted in the construction of magnificent palaces and the Jesuit University.

Evora Cathedral (Se) is a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture with an 18th Century high altar. The adjoining museum houses an abundance of interesting artifacts and relics.

Also worth a visit is the bizarre 15th Century Capela dos Ossos whose walls are covered with the bones of monks.

Approximately 20 kilometres north of Arraiolos is the tiny village of Pavia with a dolmen so large that a little 16th Century chapel was built inside it.

Pousada de Arraiolos has 30 standard and 2 deluxe bedrooms all with ensuite bathroom, telephone, Cable television, internet connection, mini-bar, safe, hair dryer and bathing gowns. Some of the bedrooms are inter-connecting.

Facilities include air conditioning, lift, restaurant, bar, terrace, safe and parking. The Pousada also has 2 shady cloisters and a beautiful garden, swimming pool, tennis court and conference facilites.

Dining in Portugal is usually very good. The restaurants of the Pousada group hotels offer a variety of dishes including a selection of local and regional specialities.

In the area you will find various activities including hunting, country walks, bicycle tours, canoeing, four wheeldriving, hot air ballooning, horse riding etc.

The international airport at Lisbon (Lisboa) is approximately 121 kilometers from this Pousada of Portugal.