Arraiolos: Hand-Embroidered Rugs and a Round Castle

Arraiolos is a small whitewashed town in the Alentejo, famous for its hand-embroidered wool rugs and for its rare circular castle walls on the hilltop. It’s an easy stop on the way to or from Évora.

Quick answer: Arraiolos is about 20 minutes north of Évora. See the rug-making tradition at the interpretation centre and in the workshops, walk up to the circular castle, and wander the white streets with their blue-trimmed houses. Buying a rug is a lasting souvenir. See places to stay in Arraiolos.

Things to do

• Arraiolos rugs: wool rugs embroidered by hand in a distinctive stitch. Visit the rug centre and workshops.
• The castle: unusual circular walls on the hilltop, with views over the plains.
• The town: white houses with blue and yellow trim.
• A pousada in a former convent nearby.

Tips

• Rugs: prices reflect the hours of hand work; ask about shipping.
• Combine with Évora and Estremoz. See Évora and the Alentejo.

More: Portugal souvenirs and the most beautiful small towns.

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