Capela dos Ossos

Visiting this unique landmark requires a bit of forethought. Ideally, target the cooler months from October to April to avoid the scorching Portuguese summer sun. Early morning visits are recommended to beat the crowds and experience the chapel in a more tranquil state. Accessibility is manageable; while the chapel is small, it’s generally suitable for families and seniors, though the flooring might challenge wheelchair users without assistance.

• Best time to visit: October to April
• How to get there: Centrally located within Évora, accessible by foot, car, or local bus from most parts of the city.
• Accessibility: Suitable for most visitors, but some areas might be challenging for wheelchairs.
• Average visit duration: About 30 minutes to 1 hour

The Chapel of Bones isn’t just about bones. From the inscription above the entrance that reads 'We bones, lying here bare, are awaiting yours,' to the mummified bodies of a child and adult displayed to the side, there is a story behind every element. Make sure to spend time absorbing the detailed frescoes and the ceiling, subtly composed of white painted bricks - a stark contrast to the walls adorned with skulls and femurs.

• Key sights: Inscription at the entrance, the ceiling frescoes, and mummified bodies.
• Unique experiences: Reflect on life and death as intended by the 16th-century monks who built the chapel.
• Photo-worthy locations: The intricate designs of human bones along the walls.
• Cultural or historical facts: The bones were exhumed from various graveyards in the area to give the monks a place to contemplate the transient nature of life.