Paco Real de Evora (Royal Palace of Évora), Evora

The Royal Palace of Évora, also known as the Royal Palace of São Francisco and the Palace of King Manuel I, stands as a testament to Portugal's regal history and architectural splendor.

Originally established as a convent in the 13th century, the palace's early days were marked by the tranquil spirituality of its monastic inhabitants. In the 14th century, when the royal family sought refuge in the Alentejo region, the convent opened its doors to accommodate them. However, it was under the reign of King John I that the palace began its journey towards becoming a royal abode of grandeur. The king utilized the palace as a personal retreat, setting the stage for its eventual transformation.

Over the following generations, the Royal Palace of Évora underwent a series of renovations and expansions. It wasn't until the reigns of King John II and Manuel I that the palace truly flourished into a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, befitting of royalty. Within the palace's walls, history was made. Playwrights like Gil Vicente and explorers like Vasco da Gama graced its chambers, seeking the favor and audience of the king.

After serving as an Archaeological Museum, theater, and exhibition space since 1865, tragedy struck in 1881 when a collapse destroyed its roofs. Adaptations followed, culminating in the transformation of the palace into the Teatro Eborense, a public theater house.

In 1943, a beacon of hope emerged as the National Monuments took on the task of restoration. The essential elements of the original design were salvaged, ensuring that the palace's legacy endured. The subsequent restoration work breathed new life into the palace, preserving its historical significance for generations to come.