All the UNESCO World Heritage locations in Portugal that have made this exclusive list, together in one place…
Introduction
UNESCO (The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation), recognises sites worldwide that offer significant historical, cultural or architectural significance. It views these sites as being worthy of the highest levels of conservation, to ensure that they are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Portugal is a country of incredible history and variety. This is recognised by it having no less than 17 locations classified by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. There are also numerous other places that are currently under consideration on the UNESCO’s tentative list, to be added to this list in future if they can justify the strict criteria required.
Personally, I have visited a good number of these, so have included some of my own experiences where I can. However, I can’t claim to have seen them all. You never know, hopefully one day I may get the chance.
Here is a roundup of all of the Portuguese UNESCO World Heritage Sites, confirmed on the list at the time of writing…
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Alto Douro Wine Region
The ancient vineyards of the Douro Valley, one of the very oldest continually used areas of wine production in the world. This region is characterised by picture-perfect landscapes of terraced hillsides, packed with grape vines. These vineyards are famous for producing the wine that is used for making port wine, one of Portugal’s most famous exports. Don’t miss the chance to stay on a vineyard and sample some for yourself.
Central Zone of the Town of Angra do Heroísmo in the Azores
Angra do Heroísmo is a city and municipality on Terceira Island, the Azores. Founded in 1478, it was historically the most important city in the Azores, and remains one of the three capital cities of the islands.
Convent of Christ in Tomar
Tomar is a beautiful, historic city in central Portugal, once a 12th century Templar stronghold. The centrepiece of the city’s historic core is the beautiful Convent of Christ. An extensive complex of beautiful buildings and gardens surround a grand, circular church – perfect for an afternoon of exploring.
Cultural Landscape of Sintra
A fairy-tale landscape of castles and quirky palaces and gardens, all arranged spectacularly on a collection of hilltop locations with wide-ranging, panoramic views. It’s a truly breathtaking place to visit, almost unlike anywhere else we’ve ever been.
Garrison Border Town of Elvas and its Fortifications
Interesting fortifications define this border town with Spain, long contested through the ages. Features include the largest bulwarked dry ditch system in the world. It is also considered to be the best surviving example of the Dutch school of fortifications anywhere.
Historic Centre of Évora
Complete with a columned, Roman temple and medieval town centre.
If in the area, also don’t miss the extensive distribution of neolithic tombs and standing stones dotted throughout this region.
Historic Centre of Guimarães
An immaculately preserved medieval town and imposing stone castle, within easy reach of Porto for a day trip. Listed for it being an authentic example of the evolution from a medieval settlement to a modern town.
Historic Centre of Oporto (Porto), Luis I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar
The beautiful city centre, iconic iron bridge and beautiful hilltop monastery, that together define the character and skyline of Portugal’s second city: Itself, the perfect location for a city break. For more on what to do when you get there, see our day trip with children to Porto.
Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture
The unique vineyards on this island in the Azores, dating back to the 15th century, are divided into plots protected by walls. These walls are constructed from weathered basalt blocks assembled without mortar.
Laurisilva of Madeira
The island of Madeira is recognised for its extensive laurel forests (or lauisilva), characterised by broadleaf tree species with evergreen, glossy and elongated leaves. These unusual, subtropical forests are found only in areas with high humidity and relatively stable, mild temperatures.
For other fun family things to do while there, check out this Madeira travel itinerary with kids.
Monastery of Alcobaça
The Mosteiro de Santa Maria, in Alcobaça, was established in 1153 by the first Portuguese king, Afonso Henriques. The church and monastery were the first Gothic buildings in Portugal and would develop a close association with the Portuguese monarchy throughout their seven-century-long history.
Monastery of Batalha
The Mosteiro da Batalha is a Dominican convent in the municipality of Batalha. It was erected in commemoration of the 1385 Battle of Aljubarrota and would serve as the burial church of the 15th-century Aviz dynasty of Portuguese royalty. It is recognised as being one of the best and original examples of Late Flamboyant Gothic architecture in Portugal.
Monastery of the Hieronymites and Tower of Belém in Lisbon
Located near the Tagus river in the parish of Belém, in the Lisbon Municipality, sits this former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome. Close by, the Belém Tower (officially called the Tower of Saint Vincent) is a 16th-century fortification that served as a point of embarkation and disembarkation for Portuguese explorers, as well as a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. Both are recognised as being some of the most prominent examples of the Portuguese Late Gothic Manueline style of architecture.
When there, be sure to visit the nearby Pastéis de Belém bakery, the origin of the ‘pastel de nata’, Portugal’s famous custard tart desert.
If you’re visiting the Lisbon area and looking to save some money, take a look at these essential tips for travelling to Lisbon on a budget.
Prehistoric Rock Art Sites in the Côa Valley and Siega Verde
Located in northeastern Portugal and sharing its listing with neighbouring Spain, the Prehistoric Rock-Art Site of the Côa Valley is an open-air Paleolithic archaeological site. It includes thousands of engraved rock drawings of horses, bovines and other animals, human and abstract figures, dated from 22,000 to 10,000 years B.C.
University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia
Established in 1290 in Lisbon and the oldest university in Portugal, it went through a number of relocations until it was moved permanently to its current city of Coimbra in 1537. This makes it one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world.
If in the area, don’t miss the incredibly well-preserved floor mosaics at the nearby Roman city of Conímbriga.
Royal Building of Mafra – Palace, Basilica, Convent, Cerco Garden and Hunting Park (Tapada)
The Palace of Mafra (or Palácio de Mafra), is a monumental Baroque and Neoclassical palace-monastery. Construction finished in 1755. It was only inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2019.
Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga
Bom Jesus do Monte is a Portuguese sanctuary in Tenões, outside of the city of Braga. Its name means ‘Good Jesus of the Mount’. The Sanctuary is a notable example of a pilgrimage site, with a monumental, Baroque stairway that climbs 116 meters (381 feet). Lining the way up are a series of rooms containing increasingly gruesome scenes that depict the story of the crucifixion of Jesus.
In Summary
The long history of Portugal as a proud, independent, country, combined with its strong and individual cultural identity, have together created many interesting and significant heritage locations. The fact that some of these sites have been singled out for special consideration by UNESCO, further emphasises this point. With more places officially under consideration on UNESCO’s tentative list, it could be that they are able to boast even more entries in future.
Whatever the case, Portugal remains a country that is both welcoming and varied for visitors to experience. It makes a great country for touring to all corners. Most foreign visitors only think about the two major cities of Lisbon and Porto, or alternatively the beaches of the Algarve, when considering a holiday. However, I’d urge anyone to come and experience more of the country (even the islands as well if you can), with all of the wonderful diversity of natural landscapes and cultural heritage on offer. The possibilities extend way beyond just the places listed here. I’m pretty sure if you do come to explore, you won’t be disappointed.
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