Avis
In the north of Alentejo, among forests of an unending horizon, somewhere the village of Avis of ancient origins and full of history can be found. Despite not having a consensual origin, on which some authors believe it to have a link to the Avis Order, others instead think that the genesis of the village happened thanks to megalithic monuments. What is known for sure is that the Order of Avis, of military nature and which exercised a strong influence on the local population in such a way that the creation of other religious bodies was not allowed, since it would imply the loss of assets and rights, is one of the maximum exponents of the village's legacy. Avis has kept its most characteristic layout, with medium-sized clusters formed in the vicinity of the main watercourses – Ribeira de Sede and its tributaries, Ribeira de Avis and Albufeira do Maranhão. Nowadays those arriving at Avis face a picturesque and modest village, with narrow and steep streets and with the traditional white houses with blue or yellow edges. Agriculture and cattle raising are the main economic activities; the industry has little importance. Fairs and festivals, pilgrimages, exhibitions and gastronomy events, folklore, music, theater, photography, handicrafts and paintings, not forgetting the outdoor activities, happen throughout the year. In gastronomy there are famous soups (purslane and mint soups), asparagus, tomato or crumb migas gatas (kind of bread mash) and game dishes. The cavacas de Avis (sweets made with eggs and brandy) make up the rest of the meal. Avis - Tree, Vine, Church, Sun. These are the four words that summarize its toponym and that wish to be the municipality's welcome card.
What to do in Avis
Travel Guide
Up to date tourist information about the city's top attractions
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Where to eat in Avis
Portuguese
18.00 €
Acolhedor e digníssimo representante da gastronomia regional alentejana, caiu nas bocas do mundo pe…
Portuguese, Regional
25.00 €
The 180 Restaurant belongs to the Estate of the Courtesy Hotel and features a menu designed for the…
Portuguese
13.00 €
A space witha classic decor that serves national and regional dishes.
Portuguese
10.00 €
A good service and a menu devoted to regional flavors are the hallmarks of this restaurant.
Portuguese, Regional
15.00 €
Cozy space, simple decoration and good atmosphere. Serves regional cuisine and Portuguese. Diverse …
Where to sleep in Avis
4 star
Magnificent Hotel, with an avant-garde design which nevertheless fits perfectly into the landscape of Alentejo. Opened at the beginning of 2009, this is the fi…
Situada no centro histórico de Avis, surge da remodelação de uma casa nobre alentejana do século XVII. Caracterizada por um estilo “happy-chique”, proporciona …
Near Avis
Portalegre
Although born and died in Vila do Conde, José Régio lived in Portalegre. It is not difficult to find in this region references to the writer, as is t…
Sousel
Located north of Alentejo Central, the municipality of Sousel does border on the North with the municipalities of Avis and Border, to the East, with …
Crato
Belonging to the district of Portalegre, the municipality of Crato is located in Alto Alentejo and is characterized for being picturesque and full of…
Campo Maior
Inserted in the district of Portalegre, Campo Maior is situated in a large valley between the banks of Montezinho, to the west, and of São Pedro, to …